A man identified as Mark Ratcliffe tragically lost his life while attempting to rescue a mother and a teenage girl caught in rough waves in Withernsea. The 67-year-old was found unconscious in the sea and pronounced dead at the scene. The incident, which also claimed the lives of the woman and left the teenager missing, occurred amid intense wave conditions reaching up to 12 feet.
Authorities are providing support to Ratcliffe’s family during this difficult time. In a heartfelt tribute, Ratcliffe’s loved ones described him as a selfless hero with a kind heart, expressing deep sorrow over his untimely passing. His son expressed pride in his father’s heroic actions and extended gratitude to the emergency services for their efforts to save him.
Humberside Police confirmed the recovery of the body of the missing 45-year-old woman, believed to be the girl’s mother. The search for the remaining missing person continues, with heightened police presence in the area. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing scene of individuals rushing to aid the teenage girl swept away by a massive wave, despite rescue attempts by lifeboat crews being hindered by the severe weather conditions.
The community mourns the tragic loss and remains vigilant in the ongoing search efforts.
