A major search and rescue operation continues off the coast of Devon after two men disappeared into the sea on Christmas Day, despite a large-scale emergency response to multiple people in difficulty.
Emergency Services Scrambled to Budleigh Salterton
Police and Coastguard teams were called to Budleigh Salterton beach at around 10.25am on 25 December 2025 following reports of individuals in trouble in the water. While several people were successfully brought to safety, two men could not be located.
A number of those rescued were checked by paramedics at the scene. As a precaution, one person was taken to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital for further assessment. The condition of the others is not believed to be serious.
Intensive Search for Missing Men
A spokeswoman for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the ongoing effort, stating: "Two men remain missing at this time and searches and enquiries are ongoing in efforts to locate them." The next of kin for one of the missing men have been informed. Police are working to contact the family of the second man, though a local friend has been notified.
The multi-agency search involved significant resources. HM Coastguard was first alerted at about 10 am. Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth and Torbay, and coastguard search and rescue helicopters were all deployed. They worked alongside police and ambulance crews.
Public Urged to Avoid Water Amid Severe Warnings
Authorities have issued a stern warning to the public following the incident. Police emphasised the danger, saying: "A significant amount of emergency service personnel were deployed to the incident and we ask that people do not enter the water for public safety reasons." They specifically advised against entering the sea on Christmas Day and for any planned Boxing Day swims.
The urgent plea comes as a yellow weather warning for strong winds was in force across parts of South West England and Wales throughout Christmas Day. The Met Office had forecast gusts of 45-55mph, potentially reaching 55-65mph on exposed coasts. Forecasters also warned of "large waves" creating additional hazards.
This severe weather has led to the cancellation of numerous organised Christmas and Boxing Day swims across Devon and Cornwall.
Anyone with information that could assist the police investigation is asked to contact Devon and Cornwall Police on 101 or via their website, quoting log number 191 of 25 December 2025.
