A couple from the UK have died at a beach in New South Wales, Australia, after being pulled from the water, police have said.

Emergency services were called at around 11:10 local time (00:10 GMT) on Wednesday to Shellharbour beach after reports two people were struggling in the water.

"Members of the public pulled a 66-year-old man and 64-year-old woman from the water and commenced CPR," New South Wales Police said.

Police added that paramedics continued to attempt resuscitation but the married couple died at the scene.

The Foreign Office said it was supporting the family of two British nationals who died in New South Wales and were in contact with local authorities.

Lake Illawarra Police district inspector Luke Geradts spoke to local media on Wednesday, calling the incident "tragic" as he sent condolences to the family of the couple.

"I want to take the opportunity to commend the members of the public in particular who assisted in the initial response including two female off-duty nurses and a young male who pulled the couple from the water and gave the couple the best chance for survival," he said.

"Although a tragic outcome today, their efforts are to be commended and really did give the couple the best chance."

Geradts added that the incident was a timely reminder of the "dangers and the unpredictability of the ocean".

A report will be prepared for the coroner. (BBC)

• PHOTO: The couple were pulled from the water at Shellharbour beach by members of the public before emergency services arrived at the scene. Photo credit: BBC