Brighton & Hove City Council (BHCC) leader Phélim MacCafferty has expressed his ‘deep sadness’ after the body of a man was found on Hove Beach.
The person is yet to be named or confirmed, but it is believed to be man who went missing on the morning of Sunday, August 2 near Hove Lagoon after falling from his kayak.
Cllr MacCafferty said: ‘This is extremely sad and tragic news, and the thoughts and sympathies of myself and the whole council are with the man’s family and friends.
‘I know the rescue services did everything they could to find the person on Sunday after scanning the sea for hours.
‘I am deeply saddened to find this morning that the incident has ended in tragic circumstances.’
Cllr MacCafferty has called on people using the beach to be extra careful and vigilant when entering the sea.
He added: ‘At this time of year, especially on hot days, the sea can look very inviting. But we must all remember it can also be extremely dangerous, especially when it’s choppy and the currents are strong.
‘It’s so easy for a swimmer, kayaker or SUP-er to quickly get out of their depth and lose control of themselves and their equipment.
‘Every beach is different, so make a point of reading safety signs, follow our guidelines and be extra cautious, especially in unfamiliar water.’
With the increase in people using Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP) and kayaks, and more and more people including children taking to the warm waters, BHCC is calling on people to keep in mind how dangerous the sea can be – especially when it’s rough and the currents are strong.
Although lifeguards are on the seafront ready to help where they can, and the service has now been extended to cover beaches in Rottingdean, people still need to be keeping safe and not taking unnecessary risks.
For more information on sea safety, CLICK HERE.
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