Man, 80, found dead on rocks along popular UK beach after huge rescue operation

A massive search operation has led to the discovery of an 80-year-old man's body at a popular UK beach.

Police, Coastguard, Lifeboat crews, and South West Ambulance Service responded to Sidmouth beach in Devon after a person was spotted on the rocks, on Monday. A lifeboat went to the coastline near Jacobs Ladder to attempt to bring the man back to the safety of the beach.

But sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene after being rescued by the lifeboat crew and police said the death is not being treated as suspicious. His family have been informed. At the time of the rescue, the seafront was closed to allow emergency services access to the beach.

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In a statement, Exmouth Police confirmed that the body had been found and that the thoughts of the force are with the man's family following the tragedy.

It stated: "Officers from Exmouth patrol and Rural East Devon patrol supported Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Search & Rescue Teams, Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat, the Coastguard helicopter and South West Ambulance Service, attended an incident at Big Picket Rock under High Peak between Ladram Bay and Jacobs Ladder beach at Sidmouth.

"A person was recovered by Sidmouth Independent Lifeboat's 'Speedy Sid' inshore lifeboat, and was conveyed to Sidmouth beach but unfortunately had passed away.

"The family have been informed and our collective thoughts are with them at this difficult time. Whilst eventually it finalised in Sidmouth, thank you for your patience and understanding around short closures and emergency vehicle obstructions on Sidmouth seafront as well as the CG helicopter landing on the seafront."

Many people have taken to social media to offer their condolences and praise the efforts of the emergency services. "Heartbreaking for everyone involved! Hope the teams who attended are taking care of themselves," said one person, while another added: "Condolences to the family. Thank you to all emergency services."

One person said: "Very sad - heard the helicopter this morning and hoped for better news," while further messages included: "Much love to the family and service staff involved too. It must be so distressing," and "thank you to everyone as ever for all that you do. Thoughts with family & crew."