Emergency services launched a major search off Budleigh Salterton beach in Devon on Christmas Day after reports of people in difficulty in the water. Two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, remain missing.
Police, coastguard, RNLI lifeboats, and helicopters were called to the scene at 10.25am. Several people were brought safely ashore; two were treated by paramedics, and one was taken to hospital as a precaution.
Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar of Devon and Cornwall Police said searches were scaled back as darkness fell, with land enquiries continuing. She urged the public not to swim on Boxing Day due to weather warnings.
The coastguard stood down its search at 5pm after extensive shoreline and offshore efforts. A yellow weather warning for wind was in place on Christmas Day, with gusts up to 65mph on exposed coasts and large waves posing additional hazards.
Authorities ask anyone with information to contact police on 101, quoting log number 191 of 25 December.
