Withernsea: MP leads tributes to rescue efforts as girl, 15, still missing

Tributes are laid in memory of two people who are confirmed to have died off the coast of Withernsea Photo released 05/01/2026

placeholder image — Tributes are laid in memory of two people who are confirmed to have died off the coast of Withernsea Photo released 05/01/2026

Withernsea’s MP has said he “cannot imagine the depth of grief” felt by the families of those involved in a sea tragedy that has left two confirmed dead and a 15-year-old girl still missing.

It has been confirmed that Mark Ratcliffe, 67, and Sarah Keeling, 45, both died trying to rescue Ms Keeling’s 15-year-old daughter, Grace, who got into trouble in the water off the East Riding town.

Grace is still missing at sea, with searches still ongoing to locate her, Humberside Police said.

Graham Stuart, MP for Beverley and Holderness, paid tribute to the emergency services and Withernsea residents who responded after the tragedy, which happened on January 2.

He said: “Throughout the weekend, in bitter weather conditions, we could only watch and wait as the emergency services worked tirelessly, doing what they do best.

“We now know that, tragically, two people have lost their lives. Grace Keeling, just 15 years old, remains missing. Her mother, Sarah Keeling, and Mark Ratcliffe, who so bravely tried to rescue her, have been recovered but could not be saved. I cannot begin to imagine the depth of grief felt by their families and loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with them all at this heartbreaking time.

“I am profoundly grateful to the emergency services - the Coastguard, Air Ambulance, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, Humberside Police, the Fire Service and the RNLI who battled appalling conditions for many hours. Their courage, professionalism and unwavering dedication in the most distressing circumstances deserve our deepest respect.”

“I also wish to pay tribute to the people of Withernsea, who came together with compassion and resolve.”

Councillor Anne Handley, leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: "Following the tragic incident at Withernsea over the weekend, on behalf of East Riding of Yorkshire Council I would like to thank all of those who worked tirelessly on the search and rescue effort including HM Coastguard, the RNLI, Coastguard Rescue Teams from Bridlington, Hornsea, Hull, Skegness and Withernsea, Humberside Police, Humberside Fire and Rescue and Yorkshire Ambulance Service.

"I would also like to thank Withernsea Town Council and the local businesses who supported those involved in the search and rescue operation.”