A RESCUE attempt to save a man who fell from a slipway into large waves off Redcar led to four people being caught in heavy seas yesterday, Good Friday.

The man fell into the sea at Dundas Street just after 4pm, where he was battered by waves close to the sea wall.

His companion attempted to rescue him but was unable to stay on his feet in the breaking surf and got into difficulties himself.

Two passers-by, a man and a woman, then attempted a rescue and also ended up in the sea before more members of the public were able to get them to safety.

Both of Redcar RNLI’s lifeboats were called to assist, but volunteer crew managed to get all four people to the lifeboat station before the boats needed to be launched.

There they were given medical assistance until ambulance crews arrived.

All four people were taken to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough for treatment for cold water immersion.

The Great North Air Ambulance and the NEAS HART team were also scrambled but were stood down.

Dave Cocks, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Redcar, said: “This was a sequence of events which could so easily have led to multiple deaths.

“The sea at Redcar is very rough as a result of the combined effects of strong winds and a particularly high tide, and the situation ended up with four adults in trouble in the sea, all needing rescue.

“It is only through good fortune that all four were rescued alive.”

Mr Cocks also reiterated the RNLI’s safety messages, saying: “This just goes to show why people need to respect the water.

“The sea a hostile, unforgiving environment. Tragically in the UK and Ireland at least one person dies from drowning each day. We believe that one drowning is one too many and we encourage people to think ahead and to take the necessary precautions to keep them and their family safe at the coast.

“Around half of those who die at the coast find themselves in the water unexpectedly, often as a result of slips, trips or falls, meaning they weren’t properly prepared to get wet. To prevent this happening, it is crucial people plan their activity, but also think about what they’d do in an emergency should something unexpected happen.

“The RNLI warns people to check the weather and tide conditions and make sure their equipment is all in working order. People should always carry a means of calling for help should something go wrong and make sure they wear the necessary safety equipment.

“If you see someone in trouble, alert the lifeguards or call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. Do not enter the water yourself.”