Tributes paid at Withernsea as search continues for teen
A 15-year-old girl remains missing
Last updated 5th Jan 2026
Tributes have been paid at Withernsea, after two people died and a teenage girl remains missing.
The search is continuing for missing 15-year-old Grace Keeling from Mansfield, who got into difficulty off the coast at Withernsea.
The body of her mother, 45-year-old Sarah Keeling, was recovered on Friday (2nd January).
The body of 67-year-old Mark Ratcliffe, a member of the public who died trying to assist with the rescue, was also recovered.
The MP for Beverley and Holderness, Graham Stuart, has praised the courage and dedication of the emergency services who helped throughout the incident.
He thanked the people of Withernsea, and says his thoughts and prayers are with the families of those involved.
"It is no surprise that Withernsea has shown such strength at this difficult time..."
Graham Stuart, the MP for Beverley and Holderness said, "On Friday, we learned of a serious incident off our coast. 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. From the staff of the Castle Café and the Methodist Church, to the volunteers of the RNLI, and the calm professionalism of local councillor Lyn Healing and Town Clerk Jayne Moxon, who opened the Meridian Centre to provide warmth and refreshment - so many people did all they could to help others. I thank every one of them.
"It is no surprise that Withernsea has shown such strength at this difficult time. It is a community defined by care for one another, and even in great sorrow, I know it will continue to look after all who are affected.
"I stand with the community in mourning, and with pride in its humanity. If there is anything at all I can do to help, please do not hesitate to contact me."
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.
"Our thoughts are with the friends and families of those involved and all those affected."