Emergency crews were scrambled after swimmers vanished in the water.
A major search and rescue operation is under way (Image: Darrin Stevens)
A 67-year-old man has died followiing a major rescue underway which saw several people come into difficulty in “horrendous” conditions and go missing in waters near Withernsea. Emergency crews raced to the scene after a group disappeared in the water near Withernsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, just after 3pm this afternoon.
Searches are continuing as a number of people remain missing after the swimmers encountered problems off the coast of the popular seaside town. However, Humberside Police have confirmed that one man has sadly died. A statement read: “During the initial searches, emergency services recovered an unconscious man from the water. Despite the best efforts, we can confirm a 67-year-old man died a short time later at the scene. The circumstances around his death are not thought to be suspicious. Searches are still ongoing. Residents will continue to see an increased police presence in and around the area as the search continues. We would ask people to please avoid the area to allow emergency services to work efficiently and safely.”
There is currently a huge emergency presence with RNLI crews, Humberside Police, the Ambulance Service and Fire and Rescue crews all in attendance.
A large cordon is in place along the seafront and the operation involves about 100 members of the emergency services.
Rescue teams are reported to be battling huge waves and “bitter” conditions off the east coast.
A spokesperson for the Coastguard said: “HM Coastguard is responding to reports made at about 3.10pm of a number of people in difficulty in the water at Withernsea.
“A search and rescue helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft have been sent, as well as Coastguard Rescue Teams from Withernsea, Hornsea, and Hull.
“The RNLI‘s inshore lifeboat from Withernsea and all-weather lifeboat from Bridlington are assisting, as well as Hornsea Inshore Rescue.
“Yorkshire Ambulance Service has been sent, as well as an air ambulance. Humberside Police and Humberside Fire and Rescue are also in attendance.”
Local Darrin Stevens told the BBC the area is a sea of blue lights.
He said: “It’s just blue lights, wall-to-wall from one side to the other. It’s not a good place to be in the sea.
Local vicar, Rev Ian Greenfield, added that “these courageous men and women who are here, possibly risking their own lives to save somebody that might be out at sea”.
