A 67-year-old man has died after heroically attempting to rescue two people from the sea off the East Yorkshire coast in treacherous conditions.
A Selfless Rescue Attempt
Mark Ratcliffe was found unconscious in the water near Withernsea on Friday, 2 January 2026. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he was later confirmed deceased. The incident prompted a major multi-agency operation launched on Friday afternoon, with crews battling "bitter" and "freezing" conditions during the search.
The body of a 45-year-old woman was also recovered from the sea. Searches are continuing for one remaining missing person connected to the tragic event.
Family Pays Tribute to a 'Hero'
Mr Ratcliffe's heartbroken family have paid a moving tribute to him, describing him as a "selfless hero" with a "heart of gold". Their statement paints a picture of a man whose final act was one of immense courage, risking his own life to try and save others in distress.
Humberside Police have released his name and confirmed the ongoing nature of the operation. The force has been coordinating the response alongside other rescue services.
Ongoing Search and Community Impact
The search effort, involving multiple agencies, underscores the dangers posed by the UK's coastal waters, especially during winter. The community in Withernsea and the wider East Yorkshire region is likely to be deeply affected by this tragedy.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the powerful and unpredictable nature of the sea, even for those familiar with the coastline. It also highlights the extraordinary bravery of individuals like Mark Ratcliffe, who instinctively put the lives of others before their own.
