Two men die after going into sea to rescue children at County Durham beach

Seaton Carew beach, Hartlepool. Water safety experts have warned about the dangers of outdoor swimming after a number of recent drownings. Photograph: Clearview/Alamy

Two men have died after going into the water at a beach in County Durham to try to help two children, police said.

Officers were called at about 3.45pm on Sunday after concerns were raised about two children in the water at Seaton Carew beach in Hartlepool.