Key Takeaways:
- Two men, including local antiques dealer Matthew Upham, are still missing after a Christmas Day swim in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, turned into a frantic rescue mission.
- The swim, an annual tradition, was held in rough seas with strong winds, which created huge swells and dragged people underwater.
- Several people had to be pulled to safety, and a major multi-agency search and rescue operation was launched, involving the coastguard and RNLI.
- The search efforts were halted at 5pm on Christmas Day, but a police presence remains at the scene, and the local authority has urged people to "think twice before taking the plunge this festive season".
- The incident highlights the importance of being aware of the risks associated with swimming in cold water, especially during the winter months.
Introduction to the Incident
The Independent is committed to providing quality journalism, and with the support of readers, is able to report on critical stories, including the recent incident in Budleigh Salterton, Devon. On Christmas Day, dozens of swimmers gathered at the popular swimming spot, hoping to enjoy a bracing cold dip before their Christmas lunch. However, the joyful annual tradition rapidly turned into a frantic rescue mission as people got into difficulty in rough seas. The conditions were described as the worst seen at the spot, with strong winds creating huge swells that dragged people underwater.
The Rescue Efforts
Two men, including local antiques dealer Matthew Upham, are still missing despite widespread searches by the coastguard and the RNLI. Mr. Upham’s heartbroken family has paid tribute to the 63-year-old, who they said was "deeply loved and will be forever missed". The family has also expressed their gratitude to the emergency services for their dedication and professionalism during the search operation. A single yellow rose was left on the doorstep of Mr. Upham’s antiques business on Boxing Day, a poignant gesture of respect and sympathy.
The Search Operation
The search efforts were extensive, with the coastguard and RNLI scouring the coastline in the face of large waves and strong winds. A passing RNLI lifeboat, which was out on a training exercise, was able to quickly respond after swimmers got into trouble. The search operation was halted at 5pm on Christmas Day, but a police presence remains at the scene. The local authority has urged people to "think twice before taking the plunge this festive season", highlighting the risks associated with swimming in cold water, especially during the winter months.
Eyewitness Accounts
Friends of Mr. Upham have described him as "exceptionally kind" and well-liked in the seaside town. They said that he was an experienced sea swimmer, who went swimming practically every day and knew the waters locally well. Mike Brown, 60, who does the Christmas Day swim most years, said that he was "unable to get out" after entering the sea but was helped by "two very brave men" who waded into the water and pulled him to safety. He described the conditions as "much worse than normal" and said that it was "clearly a mistake to try and get in".
The Risks of Cold Water Swimming
The incident highlights the importance of being aware of the risks associated with swimming in cold water, especially during the winter months. Cold water shock, strong currents, and unpredictable weather can turn a "quick dip into a serious emergency". The local authority has urged people to be cautious and to think twice before taking the plunge. The RNLI has also warned of the dangers of swimming in cold water, especially during the winter months, and has advised people to take necessary precautions and to be aware of their limitations.
Conclusion
The incident in Budleigh Salterton is a tragic reminder of the risks associated with swimming in cold water, especially during the winter months. The search operation is ongoing, and the local authority has urged people to be cautious and to think twice before taking the plunge. The Independent will continue to provide updates on the story, and with the support of readers, will continue to report on critical stories, including those that highlight the importance of safety and awareness.