His family have described him as ‘a true selfless hero with a heart of gold’
13:36, 04 Jan 2026Updated 13:56, 04 Jan 2026
Mark Ratcliffe, 67, who died trying to help two people stuck in the sea in Withernsea(Image: Humberside Police)
A man who died trying to help two people stuck in the sea in Withernsea, on Friday, January 2, has been named by family as 67-year-old Mark Ratcliffe. His family continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
Paying tribute to Mark, his family said: “A true selfless hero with a heart of gold, who was so cruelly taken trying to save others. So many lives are now shattered that you’re gone.
“You were loved by so many people, and we will all miss you forever. A loving husband, father, son, brother and the best grandad anybody could ever wish for.
“Sleep tight, we love you, we miss you.” A spokesperson for Humberside Police said the body of a 45-year-old woman was also recovered.
“Residents will continue to see an increased police presence in and around the area as officers continue to search for the one remaining missing person,” the spokesperson said.
Flowers placed in the snow by Pier Towers, Withernsea, after the tragedy(Image: Donna Clifford/Hull Live)
Mr Ratcliffe was recovered unconscious from the sea after a huge search and rescue operation involving The Coastguard, RNLI, Humberside Police , Humberside Fire and Rescue, and Yorkshire Ambulance was launched just after 3pm on Friday, following reports of “a number of people in difficulty in the sea”. Sadly, he died a short time later.
It is understood a girl was on the steps of the Pier Towers when she was knocked into the sea by a huge wave in plunging temperatures. According to nearby cafe owner Paul Whitehead, whose CCTV captured the tragedy, the others who went in were trying to rescue her.
A second person was later confirmed to have also died, with one person still missing. Initial searches were stood down at 12.30am on Saturday and resumed at 6.30am in freezing, snowy conditions.
The operation was called off late on Saturday afternoon . The third person remains missing.
The town of Withernsea, described by distraught residents as ‘in mourning’, came together to help those involved in the tragedy and rescue by offering warm spaces and drinks, as well as emotional support.