A 46-year-old fisherman has died after he was swept into the sea near Redcar.

UK Coastguard received reports that a fisherman had been washed into the sea at the South Gare Lighthouse yesterday at 4.46pm where the Redcar RNLI lifeboat went out to the man.

While the lifeboat was proceeding other members of the lifeboat crew drove to the scene to try and guide the lifeboat to the man.

When the shore party arrived, they were directed by members of the public to a man in the sea close to the water’s edge.

He was pulled clear of the water by the shore party, who then administered emergency care until paramedics from North East Ambulance Service took over.

He was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later.

A spokesperson from the North East Ambulance Service, said: "We were called at 4.49pm on June 7 to reports of a person in trouble in the water at Breakwater South Gare in Redcar. Police and Coastguard were already in attendance and we deployed four resources to support them."

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police, said: "We were called at around 4.40pm to concerns for the welfare of a 46-year-old man who was in the sea off South Gare in Redcar. Despite the best efforts of emergency services to save the man, he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious and will be referred to the coroner, The man’s family has been informed and our thoughts are with them."

Dave Cocks, for Redcar RNLI, said: "This was a terrible accident and our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man involved.

"The South Gare has been a popular fishing spot for many years. Those who fish there know that rough seas attract the fish. The recent strong winds coupled with spring tides mean the sea has been particularly rough over the past few days.

"We would urge anybody who plans to go to the coast in rough weather to consider the dangers. If you see anyone in trouble, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard. If you find yourself in the water, our advice is wherever possible to adopt the FLOAT position. Lay on your back and spread your arms and legs until the effects of cold water shock have passed. You will then be more able to save yourself."

Councillor Barry Hunt, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Environment, said: “This is such awful news and I know the thoughts of everyone across the entire community are with this man’s family and friends.

“I’m sure everyone will want to commend the bravery of the lifeboatmen who always answer the call and I would like to take the opportunity to echo the RNLI’s general advice that the sea can be a very dangerous place and we must all of us take great care at the coast.”

For more advice, visit RNLI.org/safety.