North Yorkshire Police are investigating after two swimmers lost their lives within hours of one another in separate incidents.
In the first incident, a man died after getting into difficulty in the sea near Filey.
Just before 2pm yesterday (Thursday 22 July), the Filey lifeboat was launched following multiple 999 calls that three people were in great difficulties in the sea off Reighton Gap.
A crew member entered the water to assist a man in difficulties whilst the other two people appeared to have made it safely to shore.
As the man’s condition was so serious, it was decided to transfer the casualty to Coble Landing Filey at top speed by boat to the waiting paramedics who were attending along with both a Coastguard Rescue Helicopter and the Great Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
Sadly, the 55-year-old man was pronounced dead. Two teenagers were taken to hospital for treatment.
Police were called to the incident at about 2.45pm. Their enquiries are ongoing.
John Ward, Filey Lifeboat press officer, said: “The lifeboat crews quickly launched the Atlantic 85 lifeboat and were able to take advantage of its top speed to reach the casualties so quickly.
“It has been a harrowing experience for everyone and we thank all our volunteers who attended as well as the Coastguard teams, Police, paramedics and air crews.”
River death
A few hours later, at 7.45pm, police were called by the ambulance service to a report of a 19-year-old man in difficulty in the River Wharfe at Grassington.
He was treated by paramedics, but sadly pronounced dead. Police are continuing their enquiries.
It comes as York Rescue Boat has made a plea to all schools in the area on the last day before they break up for the summer holidays.
Related
In a statement, the team said: “We know that Friday is the last day of the school year for many pupils and they will be looking forward to enjoying themselves during their summer break.
“We ask that you encourage all of your form tutors, teachers and member of staff to talk to your students about staying safe near water.
“All emergency services and volunteer rescue teams dread the call to a child in difficulty. There have been far too many deaths and serious injuries over the last week involving youngsters getting into trouble in water.
“Please get the water safety message across to as many of your students as you can tomorrow.
“Drowning – It doesn’t just happen to others, it can happen to you.”