Family's Heartbreak as Search for Missing Swimmers Concludes
The family of a man swept out to sea during a Christmas Day swim in Devon have spoken of their heartbreak as the search for him and another man was called off. Matthew Upham, an antiques shop owner, has been named as one of the two individuals reported missing after getting into difficulty in the water at Budleigh Salterton.
Emergency services were called on Thursday morning, 25 December 2025, after several people were reported to be struggling in large waves. The extensive search operation, involving coastguard, lifeboat, and police teams, was concluded on Thursday afternoon. As of Boxing Day, neither Mr Upham nor another man, also in his sixties, have been located.
A 'Deeply Loved' Man Remembered
In a poignant statement, Matthew Upham's family said they were "heartbroken" by the incident. They described him as a man who was "deeply loved and will be forever missed." The family also extended their gratitude to the emergency services who responded to the incident and conducted the search.
The tragedy unfolded during an active Met Office yellow weather warning for wind, which would have created hazardous conditions along the coast. Authorities have emphasised the dangers posed by the sea during such weather events.
Police Issue Stern Warning to Public
Devon and Cornwall Police have described the event as a "truly tragic incident." In its wake, they have issued strong advice to the public, urging people to avoid entering the water for swimming when conditions are dangerous. The force highlighted the unpredictable power of the sea, especially during periods of adverse weather.
The community in Budleigh Salterton and beyond is now coming to terms with the loss. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with sea swimming, particularly outside of lifeguarded areas and during official weather warnings.
