Ashfield mother dies and 15-year-old daughter still missing after being swept out to sea in Withernsea tragedy
A mother and daughter from Sutton-in-Ashfield who were swept away at a beach in Withernsea have been named.
Humberside Police confirmed that 45-year-old Sarah Keeling and 15-year-old Grace Keeling, were involved in this tragic incident, alongside 67-year-old Mark Ratcliffe, a member of the public who died trying to assist with the rescue.
The bodies of Sarah Keeling and Mark Ratcliffe were recovered on the evening of Friday, 2 January 2026. Searches are still ongoing to locate Grace.
It is believed the family were on a walk when a massive wave swept Grace out to sea and Sarah jumped in to try and save her.
The coastguard responded to reports just after 3pm on that day that there were "a number of people in difficulty" in the water.
A huge rescue operation was launched, involving about 100 emergency workers, a rescue helicopter, air ambulance and RNLI crews.
According to her LinkedIn profile, Sarah was an international account Manager at RM Resources in Hucknall living in Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire.
Both families continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
Paying tribute to Mark Ratcliffe, his family said: “A true selfless hero with a heart of gold, who was so cruelly taken trying to save others.
“So many lives are now shattered that you're gone. You were loved by so many people, and we will all miss you forever.
“A loving husband, father, son, brother and the best grandad anybody could ever wish for. Sleep tight, we love you, we miss you.”