Man dies on Hastings beach amid record heatwave

A man died on a beach in Hastings on Sunday despite the efforts of emergency services, as a record-breaking heatwave drew large crowds to the coast.

Sussex Police said officers were called to a medical incident on the beach near Warrior Square in St Leonards at 11 a.m. on May 24 following concerns for a man’s welfare. An air ambulance, along with police and ambulance crews, attended the scene. Paramedics administered treatment, but the man was pronounced dead at the location.

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances and a report will be prepared for HM Coroner. The man’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by officers.

The incident prompted the closure of Carlisle Parade to traffic, and a privacy screen was erected on the beach while officers worked. Multiple police vehicles, ambulances, and coastguard rescue teams were seen in the area.

The death occurred as much of southern England experienced near-record temperatures for May. The Met Office recorded a high of 32.3 degrees Celsius at Kew Gardens in London on Sunday, making it the hottest day of the year so far and the warmest May day in the United Kingdom for at least 79 years. Forecasters predicted...