Loved ones have paid tribute to three men who died in a tragic incident in the River Esk.
North Yorkshire Police say the men have been identified as Scott Thomas Daddy, from Hull, Leslie Forbes, from the East Yorkshire area, and Kenneth Patrick Hibbins (known as Patrick), who hailed from York.
Emergency services including police, ambulance and a helicopter attended a location on the River Esk, near Glaisdale, shortly before midday on Thursday. A 4×4 was recovered from the river by the fire service just after 3pm and the three men found inside had sadly died.
The force has released a statement which says Scott, 28, was “a loving son, brother, uncle and boyfriend. Always helping others, 4×4, green laning, scouting and outdoor activities, passionate Hull FC supporter and a big circle of friends.
“He was taken suddenly doing something he enjoyed, but too early. He had a big future ahead of him. He will always be missed by his loving family.”
Leslie, 70, is described as “a loving husband, father and grandfather, who will be sadly missed by his family and friends.”
And, it said, Patrick, 59, “will be sadly missed by all his close friends and work colleagues.”
Chris Ford, who lives nearby, told reporters the men were part of an off-roading group when they crossed a ford on Rake Lane. The river, swollen by heavy rain, swept them away and carried them around 400 yards downstream, he said.
It came as Storm Gerrit caused flooding and travel chaos across the country throughout Wednesday and Thursday. Police said another man, who attempted to help those trapped in the car, was pulled from the river and needed medical treatment.
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Witnesses to the incident at Glaisdale are urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, option 4, quoting reference NYP-28122023-0146.
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