The police have confirmed the death of a 51-year-old man who died following his attempt to save a woman who was reported to be struggling in the water at Brighton.
Sussex Police said they were informed at about 10.35am on Thursday after a swimmer from Kettering, Northamptonshire, was saved from the water west of Brighton Palace Pier.
According to a spokesperson for the police: “A 51-year-old man from Kettering was brought to shore and received medical attention. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed. The coroner has been informed, and the death is not being treated as suspicious.”
The incident follows the disappearance of 63-year-old Matthew Upham and another man in his 40s during a Christmas Day swim in Budleigh Salterton, a coastal town in Devon. Reports indicate the two men went missing after entering the water to assist a woman who was in difficulty.
The head of water safety for the RNLI, Gareth Morrison, in response to the situation said: “We know this time of year many people take part in festive and new year dips, or continue to take part in regular winter swims.
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In his advice, he pleaded that the public exercise caution.
“We are urging anyone entering the water to be aware of the dangers, check sea conditions carefully and to understand their own limitations,” he said.
“With the sea temperatures still dropping and reaching their coldest around March, the effects of cold water, combined with weather conditions and any personal health issues, should be taken seriously before venturing in.
“If it’s your first time in open water, we’d recommend you speak to your GP first, particularly for those with cardiac or underlying health conditions.”
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