Two men have died after reportedly entering the sea to rescue two children who were struggling in water.

The “tragic incident” took place at Seaton Carew Beach, in Hartlepool, at around 3.45pm on Sunday, July 12.

Cleveland Police say the alarm was raised after the children – who are now confirmed as safe – got into difficulty in the sea.

Officers rushed to the scene and were joined by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Coastguard and North East Ambulance Service.

Two men have died at Seaton Carew after reportedly entering the water to rescue two children who were struggling in the water.

placeholder image — Two men have died at Seaton Carew after reportedly entering the water to rescue two children who were struggling in the water.

The police say “two men were reported to have gone into the water to assist the children”.

They added: “The men were brought out of the water by the RNLI and received immediate medical treatment.

“But, sadly, both men were pronounced dead a short time later.

“Specially trained officers are supporting both families at this extremely difficult time.”

The two children were taken to hospital as a precaution.

Superintendent Glen Ward, of Cleveland Police, said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of both the men involved in this tragic incident today.

“Despite the best efforts of emergency services, sadly both men were pronounced dead a short time after being brought out of the sea.

“We are conducting enquiries into the circumstances of what happened today although the deaths are not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.

“I would like to remind everyone that open water comes with serious risks.

“We know it is inviting in the hot weather but we would encourage people to refrain from entering any open water at all.

“Today we have sadly seen the true tragedy that can happen as a result.

“Please take extra care and enjoy the warm weather as safely as possible.”