Heartbreak of Humber Rescue lifeboat crew after 'intense 24 hours'

The volunteer lifeboat crews that work tirelessly to save people in the Humber area have released a statement saying "not all searches end in a rescue" after a heartbreaking weekend.

Humber Rescue said it was called out three times by the Coastguard in 24 hours. Warm sunny weather like we had in Hull and North East Lincolnshire over the weekend increases the number of people entering the water and a spike in callouts.

The volunteer service did not give out details but hinted at a tragic outcome. Giving a statement on the social media site X on Saturday night, Humber Rescue said: "It’s been an intense 24 hours for our volunteer crew, being tasked three times by Humber Coastguard.

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"Despite exhaustive efforts, there are times we face the heavy reality that not all searches end with a rescue. These moments weigh heavily on us. No further comment will be made."

Supporters thanked them for their hard work and dedication. One tweeted: "Witnessed your hours of effort today on the Humber from Victoria Dock along with the helicopter.

"We're very lucky to have you. I hope the crew involved are kind to themselves because what you all do is incredible and very much appreciated."

In another post at 6:25pm on Sunday, Humber Rescue showed a parked car blocking the access of their lifeboat as they tried to get it into the water. "This afternoon we had a vehicle parked in a position which delayed our response," it said. "As we experienced in an incident yesterday, those lost seconds can mean the difference in our rescue efforts."

Operating outside the RLNI, Humber Rescue gets no government funding. Despite the extra challenges it faces as an independent organisation, it hit its milestone 3,000th callout last month.

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service and the Coastguard were also busy in Hull over the weekend when a woman got into trouble at Humber Dock Marina near Railway Street. Fortunately, she was rescued from the water and left in the care of the Coastguard and ambulance service.