Dramatic aerial photographs show a 4x4 being recovered from a swollen river following the death of three men who were 'swept away' by floodwater in Yorkshire.

Emergency services were called to the River Esk at Glaisdale, North Yorkshire, after the vehicle entered the water at around 11.50am yesterday (Thurs).

Tragically, three men were found dead inside when fire crews pulled the car from the waters at 12.10pm.

North Yorkshire Police said the men's next of kin had been informedand specialist support is being provided.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: photographs show a 4x4 being recovered from a swollen river following the death of three men who

Local resident Chris Ford, told how he tried to rescue the men when they got into difficulty trying to cross water and were swept 365m (400 yards) downstream.

He told the BBC: "There was a ford they were going over and they were swept down 400 yards."

He said two other people used tractors to pull the 4x4 on to the riverbank.

He added: "I helped get it out on to the riverbank with three other tractors."

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said previously: “Emergency services have been dealing with a serious incident involving a 4x4 vehicle in the River Esk near Glaisdale on the North York Moors.

"It was reported at 11.48am today (Thursday 28 December 2023) and fire, ambulance, partner agencies and police teams have been in attendance. Air support was also scrambled to the location.

"The vehicle was recovered from the river by the fire service just after 3pm. Sadly, the three men inside have died.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: photographs show a 4x4 being recovered from a swollen river following the death of three men who

"Another man who attempted to help those in the 4x4 was pulled to safety from the river at around 12.10pm. He has been receiving medical treatment.

"Next of kin are currently being informed about the tragic incident and specialist support is being provided by the police."