Bravery during the tragic Withernsea sea rescue and outstanding community work in Bridlington have been recognised at the East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Chairman’s Awards.
Outstanding contributions from individuals and groups who have made a significant impact on local communities across the Yorkshire Coast have been recognised at the East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Chairman’s Awards. This year, there was a special focus on the heroes of a tragic incident in Withernsea and dedicated community champions in Bridlington.
The prestigious ceremony, which marks twenty-six years of celebrating excellence across the East Riding, took place on Tuesday, 12 May at the Champney Treasure House in Beverley. The awards were presented by the Chairman of the council alongside BBC Look North presenter Clare Frisby, celebrating those who have made a positive difference.
A deeply moving part of the evening centred on the tragic events in Withernsea on Friday, 2 January, when Grace and Sarah Keeling were swept into the sea. Two special commendations were announced, with the first honouring three members of the public who bravely entered the water to help.
A commendation was presented posthumously to Mark Ratcliffe, whose award was collected by his son, Nigel. The council paid tribute to his unwavering courage, deep sense of humanity, and sheer bravery in the face of danger, describing his actions as a testament to true heroism.
Richard Shaw and Ellie Procter also received commendations in recognition of the bravery they demonstrated under extremely challenging circumstances during the Withernsea tragedy.
The second special commendation served as a tribute to all the professionals involved in the frontline services who worked on the incident. The council praised the RNLI volunteers, HM Coastguard, and the emergency services, noting that those involved responded with professionalism, compassion, and dedication during the search and rescue operation.
The Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Liam Dealtry, said:
"The Chairman’s Awards give us the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the many local people who so generously give their time and energy to support others through voluntary service, alongside the businesses that play a vital role in strengthening our local economy across the East Riding.
Following the tragedy at the start of the year in Withernsea I very much wanted, on behalf of the council, to recognise the bravery and dedication shown by three members of the public in particular but also the emergency services who attended throughout.
I extend my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to everyone nominated, their achievements are a credit to the East Riding."
Bridlington was also heavily featured in the honours, securing two major awards for sporting excellence and vital community support.
Oliver Male from Bridlington won the Chairman’s Sport Award in the Talented Performer category. The exceptional young boxer was praised for his dedication and resilience, which have propelled him to the very top of youth boxing. As a national champion, European gold medallist, and a proud part of the England Boxing team, he continues to work tirelessly towards a professional boxing career.
In addition, the New Pasture Lane Community Centre in Bridlington took home the Chairman’s Community Award in the Group category. The hugely impactful community hub was recognised for delivering food support, affordable meals, social activities, and essential services with dignity and trust. The dedicated team supports over one thousand nine hundred people a month through its pantry and welcomes hundreds of people weekly.
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