Man dies at West Wittering Beach after getting into difficulty in the water

A man has died at a popular beach after getting into difficulty in the water, with police confirming a second man was rushed to hospital.

Emergency services attended West Wittering beach near the Beach Café, Pound Road, at 2.30pm on Sunday, 26 July, after two adults got into difficulty in the water.

Both were pulled from the sea and received treatment from emergency services at the scene but one man - a 55-year-old - was pronounced dead at the scene.

The other man, who was unknown to the deceased, has been taken to hospital as a precaution.

West Wittering Estate has issued a statement on its social media confirming the circumstances surrounding the incident are being established with the estate saying “it would be inappropriate to speculate at this time.”

The statement added: “Our lifeguards responded immediately and, together with the ambulance service, coastguard and other emergency services, provided advanced first aid and CPR. Despite their best efforts, he was sadly pronounced deceased.

“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the man's family, friends and all those affected by this tragic incident.

“We would like to thank our lifeguards, emergency service colleagues and members of the public who assisted during the response. We respectfully ask that the privacy of the family is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”

Sussex Police has been contacted for more information.