Emergency services were unable to save the life of a 51-year-old man who got into difficulty while swimming in the sea off Brighton on New Year's Day.
Emergency Response at Brighton Palace Pier
Sussex Police confirmed that crews were called to the water west of Brighton Palace Pier at 10:35am on Thursday, 1 January 2026. The swimmer, who was from Kettering, had been pulled to shore by members of the public after encountering trouble in the water.
Despite receiving immediate medical attention from paramedics at the scene, the man was pronounced dead. Police have stated that his next of kin have been informed and that the death is not being treated as suspicious. The coroner has been notified.
A Second Coastal Tragedy in a Week
This incident follows another devastating event on Christmas Day in Devon. Matthew Upham, 63, and another man in his 40s disappeared after entering the water at Budleigh Salterton to help a woman in difficulty.
Devon and Cornwall Police coordinated a significant emergency service response, rescuing a number of people from stormy conditions. However, Mr Upham and the second man were not located. Mr Upham's family have since paid tribute, describing him as "deeply loved and will be forever missed".
RNLI Issues Urgent Cold Water Warning
In light of these tragedies, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued a forceful warning about the dangers of cold water shock, particularly during the winter months.
Gareth Morrison, head of water safety for the RNLI, emphasised the risks associated with festive dips. "We are urging anyone entering the water to be aware of the dangers, check sea conditions carefully and to understand their own limitations," he stated.
Morrison highlighted that sea temperatures are at their coldest around March and that the combined effects of cold water, weather, and personal health conditions can be severe. The RNLI recommends that first-time open water swimmers, especially those with cardiac or underlying health conditions, consult their GP before taking the plunge.
The charity's warning serves as a sobering reminder of the very real perils present even for experienced swimmers in British coastal waters during winter.
