Two bodies recovered from sea in Withernsea as search continues
A major search operation launched on Friday involving multiple emergency teams
Last updated 3rd Jan 2026
Two bodies have been recovered from the sea off the East Yorkshire coast following a major search operation.
A 67-year-old man and another person, whose gender or age has not yet been confirmed, were pulled from the water by rescue teams yesterday (2 January) following extensive searches at Withernsea.
Searches are continuing today (3 January) for third person believed to be missing. Rescue teams are being hampered by heavy snow and freezing conditions.
Humberside Police were first called to Central Promenade at around 3.15pm yesterday (2 January) following reports of concern for safety for people in the water.
HM Coastguard, Yorkshire Ambulance Service and Humberside Fire & Rescue were also sent to the area.
An update from Humberside Police just before midnight said: “During the initial searches, emergency services recovered an unconscious man from the water.
"Despite the best efforts we can confirm a 67-year-old man died a short time later at the scene. The circumstances around his death are not thought to be suspicious."
A second body was later recovered, police confirmed.
The force added that rescue teams "remain in the area as searches continue for one more person who entered the water this afternoon.
“We would ask people to please avoid the area to allow emergency services to work efficiently and safely.”
In a statement, HM Coastguard confirmed additional searches of the water would continue on Saturday (3 January).
"After extensive shoreline and offshore searches, the search was stood down at around half past midnight (12.30am, 3 January).
"Efforts will resume at first light, when coastguard rescue teams along with partner agencies will be sent to conduct additional searches of the area."