Emergency services have recovered a body from a beach in Devon following the disappearance of two swimmers during a Christmas Day swim event. The discovery comes after a distressing search operation that began when individuals got into difficulty in stormy waters.
Discovery at Exmouth Beach
Police were called to Exmouth Beach shortly before 3pm on Sunday after reports that a possible body had been seen near the shoreline. Authorities confirmed that the body of a man was subsequently recovered from the area. While formal identification procedures are still pending, the family of a 64-year-old man from Budleigh Salterton have been informed about the discovery.
Christmas Day Incident at Budleigh Salterton
The tragic events unfolded on Christmas Day when emergency services were alerted to concerns for people in the water at Budleigh Salterton Beach at 10.25am. According to police statements, a number of individuals were safely recovered to shore and checked by paramedics, with some taken to hospital as a precautionary measure.
However, two men—aged in their 40s and 60s—could not be located during the initial response. One of those missing has been identified as antiques dealer Matthew Upham, who got into difficulty while participating in the Christmas Day swim alongside a 47-year-old man who has not been named publicly.
Second Body Found at Sandy Bay
In a further development, another body was discovered on Tuesday morning during the ongoing search for the two missing swimmers. Police confirmed that this discovery was made at Sandy Bay in Exmouth at approximately 8.45am.
Although formal identification has not yet been completed for this individual either, authorities believe this may be the 47-year-old man who disappeared alongside Mr Upham. Police have not yet confirmed whether the body found on Sunday is that of Mr Upham, with investigations continuing into both recoveries.
Family Tributes and Public Mourning
The family of Matthew Upham released a heartfelt statement on his company's Instagram page, expressing their profound grief. "Our family is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved family member, Matthew Upham, who was reported missing on Christmas morning," they wrote. "Matthew is deeply loved and will be forever missed."
Singer Kate Bush, who described Mr Upham as one of her "very dearest friends" of thirty years, paid tribute to him in a post on her website. She remembered him as "extraordinarily kind, thoughtful and lived life to the full," noting that he was "a great deal of fun."
Ms Bush added poignant context about Mr Upham's relationship with the sea, stating: "Matthew was a very strong swimmer. He had a great love for kayaking. He understood that the sea should be respected." Her words highlight the tragic nature of the incident, given his experience and respect for marine environments.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Impact
The discoveries have sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly given the timing during the Christmas period. Emergency services continue their work to formally identify both recovered individuals and piece together the exact circumstances of the tragic incident.
Stormy conditions were reported along the Devon coastline on Christmas Day, with waves crashing onto the pebbled beach at Budleigh Salterton. The challenging weather likely contributed to the difficulties experienced by the swimmers, despite the tradition of Christmas Day swims being popular in coastal communities across the UK.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are reminding the public about water safety, particularly during winter months when sea conditions can change rapidly. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the power of nature, even for experienced swimmers and water enthusiasts.
