Withernsea shoreline searches continue

Extensive searches continue along the Withernsea shoreline after Humberside Police were called to reports of concerns for the safety of people in the water at around 3.15pm on Friday, 2 January 2026. 

Chief Inspector Tom Stevens updates: “This is a truly tragic incident, and our thoughts remain with the families of Sarah Keeling and Mark Ratcliffe. Both families continue to be supported by specially trained officers and have requested their privacy at this devastating time. 

“Our priority now is to find Grace, and we are doing everything we can to locate her. This includes extensive searches along the shoreline and drone searches from Withernsea to Easington directed by our specialist search teams. Our underwater search unit has also been in the area, and we have consulted with an oceanographer to ensure our searches are as efficient as possible. 

“Throughout the week, members of the public should expect to see a continued police presence in the area, and we would ask people to avoid the location to allow emergency services to work efficiently and safely."

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