Girl, 13, pulled from sea at Whitley Bay dies in hospital

A 13-year-old girl has died four days after getting into difficulty in the North Sea.

Edie Smart was pulled from the water at the south end of Whitley Bay beach in North Tyneside at about 16:20 BST on 24 July.

The youngster, from Monkseaton, was taken to hospital where she died on Monday despite the efforts of medical staff, Northumbria Police confirmed.

Tynemouth RNLI and the Great North Air Ambulance had been involved in the rescue attempt.

Police said the force was supporting her next of kin.

Det Ch Insp Emma Smith said: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our deepest condolences go to Edie’s family and friends.

“Our specially trained officers will continue to provide them with the support they need at this time.

“We ask that their privacy be respected as they begin to come to terms with the loss of their loved one.”

A spokesperson for Tynemouth RNLI said its crew had worked with a number of teams during the rescue mission, including those from other lifeboat stations, Blyth Coastguard Rescue Team, Tynemouth Volunteer Life Brigade and the Great North Air Ambulance Service.

“Last week our crews were called out to one of our most difficult rescues in recent memory, taking skill and courage from all parties to try and help someone in danger,” they said.

“Sadly, it wasn’t enough. All our thoughts from the crew at Tynemouth RNLI are with Edie’s family.”