AN inquiry has been launched after a man died after being rescued in a large-scale operation involving four RNLI lifeboats and a Coastguard rescue helicopter.
The incident, which occurred off the North Yorkshire coast, between Whitby and Scarborough on Monday, involved a crewman who fell from an 8m fishing vessel.
Crews from Scarborough and Whitby rescued the man from the water before airlifting him to James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough.
The rescue, involving inshore and all-weather lifeboats, took place near shore, north of the rocky cove at Hayburn Wyke.
He was recovered from the water before being winched aboard the coastguard rescue helicopter, which airlifted him to hospital.
Those involved in the rescue operation have since received dozens of tributes on social media.
Trish Kinsella said: "I know the person who went overboard. It helps so much to know how our wonderful lifeboats worked together and as always gave their all. Huge thanks as always to our amazing crews from Scarborough and Whitby and the helicopter crew."
Following the incident, an investigation by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has been launched.
MAIB determines the causes of marine accidents with a view to improving safety. Reports of its investigations do not apportion blame or liability.
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