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Mersea Island: Man dies in hospital following beach rescue

News imageStuart Howells/BBC Air ambulance helicopter on beachStuart Howells/BBC
Land and air ambulances were called out to Mersea Island, south of Colchester, to help the man in his 30s

A man spotted in distress in the sea has died despite the efforts of beachgoers to save him.

Essex Police said officers were called to Mersea Island at 18:50 BST on Sunday following concerns for the man.

A paddleboarder and two lifeguards went to help, with the West Mersea lifeboat then ferrying him to the beach.

Essex Police said: "The man, in his 30s, was taken to hospital, and despite the best efforts of paramedics, sadly, he died later at hospital."

The force added that a "young child was also brought to safety and he is doing well".

Essex and Hertfordshire Air Ambulance, the East of England Ambulance Service and the coastguard also attended the scene.

News imageStuart Howells/BBC Beach rescue on West Mersea beach in EssexStuart Howells/BBC
The local inshore lifeboat was also involved in the rescue
News imageStuart Howells/BBC Beach rescue on West Mersea beach in EssexStuart Howells/BBC
Emergency services were called to the beach by a member of the public at about 18:45 BST
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