Saffron Cole-Nottage, 32, a mother of six, tragically drowned on 2 February 2025 after becoming trapped upside down in sea defence boulders in Lowestoft, Suffolk. Witnesses and passers-by made desperate rescue attempts as the tide rose, but a delayed emergency service response contributed to the fatality. The inquest at Suffolk Coroner’s Court is investigating the circumstances of her death.
Trapped Between Rocks
Saffron was walking her dog, Blue, along a path between the promenade sea wall and boulders with her daughter when she slipped and became wedged headfirst between the rocks. Witnesses saw her legs sticking out as the tide steadily submerged her head, leaving her unable to free herself.
Bystanders Brave Rescue Attempts
A group of bystanders, including two men and a young girl, spent around 15 minutes trying to pull Saffron free before emergency crews arrived. One witness described the wait for official help as agonising, with frantic 999 calls highlighting the urgency as the tide rose.
Delay In Emergency Response
The inquest heard that after the initial ambulance call at 7:52pm, fire crews were only dispatched at approximately 8:10pm despite earlier communication between ambulance, fire, and coastguard services. By the time firefighters reached the scene, Saffron was unconscious and later pronounced dead.
Alcohol Level Findings
Post-mortem results revealed Saffron’s blood alcohol concentration was over three times the legal drink-drive limit. However, witnesses reported that she appeared coherent and steady before her fall.
Family Tribute Fire
Family representatives described Saffron as a devoted and loving mother whose life was full of laughter. Suffolk Coroner Darren Stewart acknowledged the profound impact of her death on her family and committed to scrutinising the emergency services’ handling and the sea defence site’s safety during the nine-day inquest.
