Coroner’s inquest opens into Withernsea sea deaths

An inquest has opened into the deaths of two people who died after being swept away by the sea in Withernsea.

Mark Ratcliffe, 67, entered the water in an attempt to try to save Sarah Keeling, 45, and her daughter Grace Keeling, 15, on 2 January.

Ratcliffe, who was pulled unconscious from the water during the initial search, died at the scene. Sarah’s body was found later that evening, with police still searching for Grace.

A hearing at Hull Coroner’s Court was opened and adjourned by Lorraine Harris, Area Coroner for Hull and East Yorkshire.