A man has died after being rescued from the sea off a North East coastal town, it has been confirmed.

Emergency services were called out after reports of concern for a man in the sea water off of Whitley Bay at around 8pm on Wednesday. 

 Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade, Blyth Coastguard Rescue Team and Cullercoats RNLI attended the incident, along with Northumbria Police. 

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Shortly before 8pm on Wednesday, we received a report of concern for a male in water off the coast of Whitley Bay.

Get more from The Northern Echo and start 2024 informed with 50% off an annual subscription or enjoy 3 months for just £3. Dive into local news and fulfil your resolution to stay updated. Click here.

“Emergency services attended the scene and a man was sadly pronounced deceased a short time later.

“The man’s next of kin have been informed.

“There are believed to be no suspicious circumstances around the man’s death and a report will now be prepared for the coroner.”