Full Breakdown
Tragic Christmas Day Swim in Budleigh Salterton: Search for Missing Swimmers Concludes
12/27/2025, 2:06:29 AM
Incident Overview
On Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, a tragic incident occurred during a swim in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, when two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, were swept out to sea. Emergency services were alerted at approximately 10:25 GMT after reports of swimmers struggling in large waves. While several individuals were rescued, the two men could not be located despite extensive search efforts.
Search and Rescue Operations
The search operation involved multiple agencies, including HM Coastguard, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth, and Torbay, as well as coastguard rescue teams from Exmouth and Beer. Search and rescue helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft were also deployed. The coastguard's search was officially called off at around 17:00 GMT on the same day, although police continued onshore inquiries into the evening.
Family Tribute to Matthew Upham
One of the missing individuals has been identified as Matthew Upham, a local antiques shop owner. His family expressed their heartbreak through a statement on his business's Instagram page, stating, “Matthew is deeply loved and will be forever missed.” They also thanked the emergency services for their dedication and professionalism during the search efforts.
Weather Conditions and Safety Warnings
The incident occurred amid a Met Office yellow weather warning for wind, which had been in effect for parts of southwest England and Wales. Witnesses reported that the sea conditions were particularly dangerous, with waves reaching heights of at least 6 to 10 feet. Local resident Julia Robb described the day as “very cold and windy,” noting that the waves were breaking over swimmers. Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar of Devon and Cornwall Police characterized the event as “a truly tragic incident” and urged the public to avoid swimming in the sea, especially on Boxing Day.
Community Impact and Reactions
The local community has been deeply affected by the incident. Sarah Giles, who leads a community swim group, remarked on Upham's significant impact in Budleigh Salterton, noting that he was an experienced swimmer who regularly participated in year-round swimming. Community members expressed their condolences and concern for the families involved, highlighting the close-knit nature of the town.
Official Statements
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that both men remained missing as of December 26, and a police presence continued at the scene. The police reiterated their advice against swimming in the sea, despite the absence of official warnings on Boxing Day.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mr Upham’s family wrote in a statement on his company’s Instagram page on Friday: “Our family is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved family member, Matthew Upham, who was reported missing on Christmas morning.” — Family of Matthew Upham
- “Our thoughts remain firmly with the families and friends of the two men who are currently missing and to all who may have witnessed and be impacted by the incident.” — Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar, Devon and Cornwall Police
- “Robb added: “It was a sad thing to happen on what had been such a positive morning.” — Julia Robb, Local Resident
The search for the two missing men has concluded, but the community continues to mourn their loss and reflect on the tragic events of Christmas Day.
