‘Hero’ dad who died trying to save mum and daughter in rough seas named and pictured | UK | News

In a touching and heartfelt tribute, the Ratcliffe family said Mark was “a true selfless hero with a heart of gold who was so cruelly deceived while trying to save others”.

They added: “So many lives have been shattered because you are gone. You were loved by so many people and we will all miss you forever.”

“A loving husband, father, son, brother and the best grandfather anyone could ask for. Sleep tight, we love you, we miss you.”

Humberside Police also announced that the body of a 45-year-old woman was also found after the tragic incident; However, teams are still looking for the missing person in the North Sea.

Officers warned locals that police presence in and around the area may increase as the search continues.

A force spokesman said: “He has been named as Mark Ratcliffe, 67, by the family of a man who died trying to help two people stranded at sea in Withernsea on Friday, January 2.

“His family continues to be supported by specially trained officers.”

Emergency services were first alerted that the three men had gone out to sea at 3pm on Friday, when RNLI and HM Coastguard rescue helicopters and lifeboats were sent to comb the area.

RNLI crews from Withernsea, Bridlington and Hornsea Inshore Rescue assisted with the work until 00.30am on Saturday.

The crew was stopped briefly until first light and the search continued until 16:00 on January 3.