Two dead after five people pulled from water off Aberdeen beach

A mother and her young son have died in hospital after being pulled from the sea off Aberdeen beach.

Emergency services launched a rescue operation at around 4.45pm after onlookers spotted five people in difficulties in the sea and raised the alarm.

An area of the beach was cordoned off while emergency services attended the incident.

Two people were rescued by the coastguard, while three others were pulled from the sea by police officers.

A seven-year-old boy and a 37-year-old woman, believed to be mother and son, have since died in hospital as a result of their injuries.

Police Scotland say that another boy, aged 13, a 25-year-old woman, and a 28-year-old man remained in hospital on Saturday night for treatment.

Chief Inspector Stewart Mackie said: "This is a very tragic incident which has resulted in a woman and young boy sadly losing their lives - it will undoubtedly bring shock and sadness to the entire city of Aberdeen and further afield.

"Given the recent weather conditions we'd urge members of the public to take care, especially when near coastal or beach areas."

He urged witnesses, or anyone with information about the incident, to call officers on 101.