In a heartbreaking turn of events, one of two missing swimmers on Christmas Day has been found deceased, while the search continues for the second individual. The tragedy has left the seaside town of Budleigh Salterton in Devon reeling, with the community rallying to support the families affected.
The incident occurred on the afternoon of 25th December, when a group of swimmers ventured into the stormy seas at Budleigh Salterton beach. Emergency services were alerted at around 10:25 GMT, with RNLI crews and coastguard helicopters launching an extensive search operation along the shoreline and offshore.
While several swimmers were safely brought back to shore and checked by paramedics, two men remained unaccounted for. The body of a 47-year-old man was later recovered at Sandy Bay near Exmouth on Tuesday, though formal identification is still pending. The man’s next of kin have been informed.
The second missing swimmer has been identified as 64-year-old local antiques dealer Matthew Upham. According to a friend, Upham had entered the water to assist a woman in difficulty. His family has expressed their deep love and grief, stating that he will be “forever missed.”
Superintendent Ryan Doyle of Devon and Cornwall Police described the discovery as “very sad news.” He added, “We have spoken with his family and we are continuing to support them through this difficult time. Understandably they have asked for their privacy to be respected.”
The family of the second missing swimmer has also been informed and is receiving support from the authorities.
The tragic incident has resonated deeply within the Budleigh Salterton community, with residents placing flowers along the edge of the beach and outside Upham’s antique shop. Local people have expressed that the incident has “struck the heart” of the seaside town.
Singer-songwriter Kate Bush, who was a close friend of Upham’s for over 30 years, has also paid tribute to the “extraordinarily kind, thoughtful” man, saying she is “heartbroken” to hear of his disappearance.
The Christmas and Boxing Day swims in Devon and Cornwall had been postponed or cancelled due to a yellow weather warning for wind, highlighting the challenging conditions that may have contributed to this tragic outcome.
As the investigation continues and the search for the second missing swimmer remains ongoing, the community of Budleigh Salterton comes together to mourn the loss and offer support to the families affected by this devastating incident.
