Diver dies yards from Forth Coastguard base
A female diver has died just yards from a coastguard station after getting into difficulty in shallow waters in the Firth of Forth.
Kim Eberst, from Dundee, was with a group diving from the shore near Forth Coastguard's base at Fifeness at about 2030 BST on Monday.
Another diver, still in her diving suit, banged on the door of the rescue centre and shouted for help.
Ms Eberst, 47, was airlifted to hospital where she was declared dead.
It is thought there may have been was some kind of difficulty with her equipment, which possibly led to a panic attack.
The woman's friends had tried to revive her on the beach.
The incident happened about 200 yards (183m) from the coastguard station.
Simon Smart, Forth Coastguard watch officer, said: "We could see the group on the shore. But the first we were aware was somebody banging at the door.
"It would seem it's been a tragic accident."
Dundee Sub Aqua Club said Ms Eberst had been a "keen and enthusiastic" diver who was well liked in the club and would be "sadly missed".
A statement on their website added: "The police are undertaking an investigation and will be submitting a report to the procurator fiscal and so we are unable to comment further.
"All members of the Dundee SAC are shocked by this incident and their thoughts are with the family and friends of our friend and colleague at this difficult time."
Bob Abercrombie, Forth Coastguard's watch manager, said: "As soon as we were alerted to this incident, rescue resources were sent to the scene and despite the best efforts of all involved, sadly this diver has died.
"We are assisting Fife police in the conduct of their inquiries."
Fife Constabulary said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.