On a day meant for celebration and community spirit, a traditional Christmas morning swim at Budleigh Salterton beach in Devon turned into a heartbreaking tragedy. What began as a festive gathering of hundreds braving the chilly waters quickly descended into chaos as powerful waves and treacherous conditions overwhelmed swimmers. A desperate rescue attempt by one man to save another unfolded in front of stunned onlookers, but rough seas claimed both within minutes. Rescuers later admitted the conditions were far worse than anticipated, and by the time extensive help arrived, the ocean had already sealed a devastating fate. Two men—one in his 40s and the other in his 60s—remain missing and are now feared dead.

The incident occurred shortly after 10 a.m. on December 25, 2025, during Budleigh Salterton’s annual Christmas Day dip, a longstanding tradition drawing locals and visitors to the pebble beach on the Jurassic Coast. Despite a Met Office yellow weather warning for strong winds across the South West—gusts up to 65 mph and large waves—hundreds gathered, many in fancy dress, eager to plunge into the sea for charity and camaraderie. Witnesses described initial excitement as swimmers dashed into the water, but the mood shifted dramatically as massive swells, estimated at 6 feet or more, battered the shore.

Reports indicate that one swimmer, identified as Matthew Upham, a 63-year-old local antiques dealer, got into difficulty first. Upham, owner of Matthew Upham Antiques in the town and described by friends as “exceptionally kind” and well-liked, was swept out by the current. A second man, in his 40s, reportedly entered the water in a brave attempt to rescue him. Onlookers watched in horror as both struggled against the relentless waves, screams ringing out across the beach.

Emergency services were alerted at 10:25 a.m., triggering a massive multi-agency response. Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth, and Torbay, along with coastguard helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, rushed to the scene. Police and ambulance services joined the effort. Several swimmers were pulled to safety, with two checked by paramedics at the site and one taken to hospital as a precaution. Local residents even waded in to assist, dragging exhausted individuals ashore.

Despite hours of exhaustive searches in “punishing conditions,” the two men could not be located. The coastguard stood down its offshore operations at 5 p.m., with police continuing onshore inquiries into the evening. Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar of Devon and Cornwall Police described it as a “truly tragic incident,” expressing thoughts for the families and witnesses. Authorities urged the public to avoid entering the water along that stretch of coast.

The younger man’s heroic act amplified the sorrow. Witnesses recounted seeing him battle the waves to reach Upham, only for both to be overwhelmed. One survivor, Mike Brown, a 60-year-old local with nearly 30 years in Budleigh Salterton, called the conditions “the worst I’ve ever seen.” He credited two rescuers for dragging him to safety after waves knocked him over.

Matthew Upham was formally named on Boxing Day by his heartbroken family. In a statement posted on his antiques shop’s Instagram, they said: “Our family is heartbroken by the loss of our beloved family member Matthew Upham, who was reported missing on Christmas morning. Matthew is deeply loved and will be forever missed.” They thanked emergency services for their tireless efforts and requested privacy.

The community reeled from the loss. Floral tributes appeared on the beach, and local churches offered prayers. Budleigh Salterton Baptist Church posted messages of support for the families and responders. The tragedy prompted cancellations of Boxing Day swims nearby, with police reiterating sea safety warnings.

This incident highlights the unpredictable dangers of open-water swimming, even in familiar spots. Annual Christmas dips, while raising funds for charity, carry risks amplified by winter weather. Experts noted that strong winds and high waves create rip currents and undertows capable of overpowering even experienced swimmers.

As investigations continue—no suspicion of foul play—the focus remains on supporting affected families. The unnamed rescuer’s bravery, attempting to save a stranger, embodies selflessness, while Upham’s loss leaves a void in the tight-knit town.

In the aftermath, the beach—usually a place of joy—stands as a somber reminder of nature’s power. The festive tradition, meant to bring people together, ended in profound grief, underscoring life’s fragility on a day of supposed merriment.