The family of Matthew Upham has paid tribute to him following a Christmas Day swimming incident off Budleigh Salterton in Devon. Upham, who ran an antiques business in the town, was one of two men who went missing after entering the water.
Emergency services were called at 10.25am on Christmas Day after concerns were raised for people in the water. A number of swimmers were brought safely to shore, but two men—one in his 40s and another in his 60s—could not be found. Two people were checked by paramedics, and one was taken to hospital as a precaution.
In a statement posted on his Instagram account, Upham's family said: “Our family is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved family member Matthew Upham, who was reported missing on Christmas morning. We would like to express our sincere and heartfelt thanks to the emergency services who responded, particularly the RNLI and coastguard, for their dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts.”
The coastguard stood down its search at 5pm on Christmas Day, but police said onshore inquiries continued. On Boxing Day, police confirmed both men were still missing. Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar described it as “a truly tragic incident” and urged people not to go into the water despite the lack of official warnings.
Witness Julia Robb described the conditions as “very cold and windy” with waves of at least 6ft. She said: “It was a sad thing to happen on what had been such a positive morning. I think it will be shocking for the whole community.”
