Emergency services launched a major operation on Christmas Day after concerns were raised for swimmers who entered the water despite severe weather warnings along the Devon coast.
Major Incident at Budleigh Salterton
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed they were called to Budleigh Salterton beach at 10am on Thursday, 25 December 2025. A significant number of emergency service personnel, including coastguard and RNLI crews, were scrambled to the scene. A police spokesperson stated that a number of individuals had been safely brought ashore and were awaiting assessment by paramedics.
Search efforts continued in the water as authorities worked to ensure everyone was accounted for. The police urgently advised the public not to enter the water along that stretch of coast while the incident was ongoing, emphasising the serious risk to public safety.
Ignored Warnings and Cancelled Events
The incident occurred while a Met Office yellow weather warning for wind was in force across parts of south-west England and Wales from 4am until 11.59pm on Christmas Day. The forecaster had warned of "strong and gusty east to northeasterly winds" with peak gusts of 45-65mph, particularly along exposed coasts. Large waves were highlighted as an additional hazard.
As a direct result of the dangerous conditions, a number of organised Christmas and Boxing Day swims in Devon and Cornwall were cancelled this year. Police had earlier appealed to the public not to take part in the traditional Christmas Day swim at Exmouth while emergency services dealt with the unfolding situation at Budleigh Salterton.
Contrasting Scenes in Dublin
Meanwhile, in a stark contrast to the dangerous situation in Devon, thousands of people participated in the annual Christmas Day swim at the Forty Foot promontory in Sandycove, Dublin. Among the crowds was veteran swimmer Patrick Corkery, dressed as Santa, who has taken the festive dip for over 30 years.
Joking about his costume, Corkery said, "I just needed to do one more swim before I headed back to Lapland." He noted the challenging conditions, stating the water was about seven degrees and that the sea was rough, advising swimmers to keep a careful eye on the waves.
The incident in Devon serves as a serious reminder of the dangers posed by severe weather and the vital importance of heeding official safety warnings, even during traditional festive activities.
