Major search at Withernsea after two pulled from sea, one dies

Two people were recovered from the sea off the East Yorkshire coast on Thursday, police said, and a 67-year-old man who was pulled from the water later died at the scene.

Humberside Police did not give details about the second body but said the circumstances were not thought to be suspicious. They added searches are continuing for one more person who entered the water.

The incident was reported at 15:10 GMT and prompted a major search involving a rescue helicopter, an air ambulance and RNLI crews from Withernsea, Bridlington and Hornsea Inshore Rescue.

Hornsea Inshore Rescue said it had faced "horrendous conditions" with waves of about 9.8ft (3m). Around 100 members of the emergency services, including Yorkshire Ambulance and Humberside Fire and Rescue, were involved.

A large cordon that had been in place was later lifted, but police warned residents to avoid the area to allow teams to work and said there would be an increased police presence while searches continue.

A BBC reporter at the scene said it was high tide, light had faded fast and it felt very cold. "It's freezing with the windchill factor," he said.

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