Grace went into the water at Withernsea on January 2. Her mother, Sarah Keeling, 45, and passer-by Mark Ratcliffe, 67, both died after trying to save her. Her body was found among rocks on Withernsea beach at 8.30am on Thursday. However, due to tide times, weather conditions and the location, emergency crews were unable to recover Grace before high tide on Friday.
Humberside Police confirmed in a statement issued today, January 17, that emergency services, alongside HM Coastguard, have recovered a body. Formal identification is still to take place.
“This morning, with the help of HM Coastguard, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service and other specialist assistance, we have been able to safely recover Grace,” said Detective Superintendent Simon Vickers.
It is believed that Grace and a friend were standing on steps near the rocks on Withernsea beach when she was knocked into the water by a wave.
Grace’s mother, along with three other members of the public including Mr Ratcliffe, immediately went into the sea in an attempt to rescue her.
DS Vickers added: “This was a deeply upsetting incident, and I cannot begin to understand the heartbreak felt by all the loved ones of those involved.
“We have spoken with Grace’s family and updated them, and we are continuing to support them with specially trained officers at this extremely difficult time.
“Understandably, they have asked for their privacy, and we would ask that this is respected.
“Our thoughts and sincere sympathies will always remain with the families of Grace and Sarah Keeling, and Mark Ratcliffe following this utter tragedy.”
Speaking in tribute Mr Ratcliffe’s family said he was “so cruelly taken trying to save others”. They added: “So many lives are now shattered that you’re gone. You were loved by so many people, and we will all miss you forever.”
Mr Ratcliffe was pulled unconscious from the sea by rescuers after a major search and rescue operation had been launched. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, his life could not be saved.