The man who died trying to save them, was named earlier today
17:39, 04 Jan 2026Updated 17:48, 04 Jan 2026
Grace Keeling, 15, and her mum Sarah, who were involved in the Withernsea tragedy (Image: Humberside Police)
Two other people lost in the Withernsea tragedy have been named as mother and daughter Sarah, 45 and Grace Keeling, 15. The man who died trying to save them, Mark Ratcliffe, 67, was named earlier by police.
A spokesperson for Humberside Police said: “Following reports of concerns for safety for people in the water in Withernsea, with the permission of the family, Humberside Police can now confirm that a mother and daughter, 45-year-old Sarah Keeling and 15-year-old Grace Keeling, were involved in this tragic incident, alongside 67-year-old Mark Ratcliffe, a member of the public who died trying to assist with the rescue.
“The bodies of Sarah Keeling and Mark Ratcliffe were recovered on the evening of Friday, 2 January 2026. Searches are still ongoing to locate Grace. Both families continue to be supported by specially trained officers.”
Paying tribute to Mark, his family described him as 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. A loving husband, father, son, brother and the best grandad anybody could ever wish for.
“Sleep tight, we love you, we miss you.” Withernsea residents were told to expect an increased police presence in and around the area as officers continue to search for the missing teenager.
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.
Mark Ratcliffe(Image: Humberside Police)
It is understood Grace was knocked into the sea by a huge wave in plunging temperatures and her mother and Mr Ratcliffe went in to save her.
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.