A 67-year-old man who tragically lost his life while attempting to save two people from the sea off the East Yorkshire coast has been formally named as Mark Ratcliffe.
A Family's Heartbreaking Tribute
In an emotional statement, his devastated family described him as 'a true selfless hero with a heart of gold, who was so cruelly taken trying to save others'. They painted a picture of a beloved family man, deeply cherished by all who knew him.
'So many lives are now shattered that you're gone,' the family's tribute continued. 'You were loved by so many people, and we will all miss you forever.' They remembered Mr Ratcliffe as a loving husband, father, son, brother and 'the best grandad anybody could ever wish for', ending with the words: 'Sleep tight, we love you, we miss you.'
Emergency Services Scramble to the Scene
The incident prompted a major emergency response along the promenade. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the area illuminated by flashing blue lights as multiple services raced to the coast.
Among the agencies dispatched were HM Coastguard and Humberside Police, who worked at the scene following reports of people in difficulty in the water. The precise circumstances leading to the tragedy are yet to be fully detailed by investigators.
A Community Mourns a Selfless Act
The death of Mark Ratcliffe underscores the profound dangers posed by the UK's coastal waters, even to those acting with the most courageous of intentions. His final act was one of extraordinary bravery, seeking to aid others in peril.
As the community comes to terms with the loss, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and honouring the memory of a man whose last moments defined him as a hero. The incident serves as a solemn reminder of the power of the sea and the incredible risks taken by both rescuers and brave members of the public.
