POLICE have confirmed that a man has died following a tragic incident at a beach in Bude last Friday.

A man, reported to be in his 40s, has died after on-duty lifeguards pulled him ashore at Widemouth Bay at around 4.20pm.

According to police, they were called after reports of concern for the welfare of a man in the sea. The man reported to be a surfer, was brought in by the attending RNLI staff, who performed CPR. However according to police he died shortly after.

The male surfer was found in trouble in the water around 30 metres north of the lifeguarded beach at Widemouth, out towards Black Rock.

Two of Bude’s beaches were closed following the incident.

A statement released by the RNLI said: “RNLI lifeguards at Widemouth Bay went to the aid of a surfer on Friday, May 31. RNLI lifeguards from Widemouth Bay and neighbouring Black Rock beach assisted by bringing the casualty to shore and giving CPR.

“Both Widemouth Bay and Black Rock beaches were closed while lifeguards dealt with the incident.”

A police spokesperson said: “The man, in his 40s, was treated by ambulance at the scene but sadly confirmed deceased a short time later. His next of kin have been informed. The death is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”