Major rescue operation after ‘number of people go missing’ in freezing waters off coast

A major rescue operation is under way after reports several people got into difficulty in freezing waters in the sea.

Emergency crews have swarmed the coastline at Withernsea in the East Riding of Yorkshire following the incident earlier this afternoon.

Reports of swimmers ‘in difficulty’ at the popular seaside spot were first made at around 3pm.

A rescue helicopter has been deployed as part of the search, which also involves RNLI crews, police, paramedics, an air ambulance and firefighters.

Hornsea Inshore Rescue described the conditions as ‘horrendous’ in a Facebook post.

The service said: ‘Called out, unable to launch lifeboat due to horrendous conditions…

‘… three metre waves breaking on our slipway which would knock the tractor and trailer sideways off the ramp.

‘Our 4×4 vehicle on route to Withernsea with casualty care crew.’

Speaking to the BBC, local Darrin Stevens said the weather is ‘bitter’ and ‘freezing’ by the beach, adding: ‘It’s not a good place to be, in the sea.’

He said of the emergency response: ‘It’s just blue lights, wall-to-wall from one side to the other.’

A spokesperson for HM 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.’

Humberside Fire and Rescue asked residents and visitors to avoid the area to help rescuers get in and out.

A spokesperson said: ‘There are emergency vehicles around the central promenade area of Withernsea.

‘We ask if people can avoid this area if at all possible and to take care because emergency vehicles will be moving in the area.’

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