Withernsea sea hero may receive a posthumous award

Mark Ratcliffe, 67, died after entering heavy seas at Withernsea while attempting to rescue a mother and her teenage daughter, and his actions are being considered for a royal bravery award.

Mark Ratcliffe, 67, entered heavy seas at Withernsea in an attempt to rescue a mother and her teenage daughter. He was pulled from the water and later died. The mother, Sarah Keeling, was later found dead and the teenage daughter, Grace Keeling, remains missing. The lord‑lieutenant for the East Riding of Yorkshire has said he is investigating how best to recognise Ratcliffe's actions. Key facts: - Mark Ratcliffe, 67, entered the water at Withernsea to try to help Sarah Keeling, 45, and her daughter, Grace, 15. - Ratcliffe was recovered from the water and later died at the scene; Sarah Keeling's body was found later the same day. - Police report that Grace Keeling is still missing and that searches are ongoing along the shoreline, with drones and an underwater search unit involved. - James Dick OBE, the lord‑lieutenant, said his office will contact those involved in the awards process to determine the most appropriate recognition. Summary: The deaths have prompted local official responses and ongoing search efforts, with a focus on locating the missing teenager. The lord‑lieutenant has announced he will engage the awards process to consider a posthumous recognition for Mark Ratcliffe; the police continue active searches and family support is being provided.