A 67-year-old man has been hailed as a "true selfless hero" after he tragically drowned while attempting to save two people from the sea off the Yorkshire coast.
A Fatal Rescue Attempt
The incident occurred on Friday, 4 January 2026, at Withernsea. Mark Ratcliffe entered the water in a brave attempt to assist two individuals who were reported to be in difficulty.
Emergency services, including Humberside Police, were called to the scene. Mr Ratcliffe was pulled from the sea unconscious and was later confirmed to have died.
Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In an emotional statement, his devastated family paid tribute to a beloved man. "A true selfless hero with a heart of gold, who was so cruelly taken trying to save others," they said.
"So many lives are now shattered that you're gone. You were loved by so many people, and we will all miss you forever." The family's words underscore the profound loss felt by the community.
Ongoing Investigation and Search
In a further tragic development, the body of a 45-year-old woman was also recovered from the water. The search for a potential third person was subsequently called off by the authorities.
Humberside Police are leading the investigation into the full circumstances surrounding the double tragedy on the Yorkshire coast. The events have sent shockwaves through the local area and highlighted the dangers of the sea.
This remains a developing news story. The public is advised to follow official updates and exercise extreme caution near coastal waters, especially during winter months.
