Family pays tribute to man missing after Christmas Day sea swim

The family of a man who went missing during a Christmas Day swim off the Devon coast have paid tribute. They described him as “deeply loved”. They also said he will be “forever missed”.

Relatives have named Matthew Upham as one of two swimmers missing at sea. The incident occurred near Budleigh Salterton on Thursday morning. Emergency services were alerted shortly after 10:25 GMT. This followed reports that two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, had entered the water and failed to return.

Mr Upham’s family confirmed his identity in a statement. They shared this statement on his antiques business’s Instagram page. They said they were “heartbroken” following his disappearance on Christmas morning.

A major search operation was launched involving the coastguard, lifeboat crews and police. After several hours of searching along the shoreline and offshore, the coordinated rescue effort was stood down at about 17:00. Police later confirmed that both men remain missing and that inquiries are continuing.

In their statement, the family said:
“Matthew is deeply loved and will be forever missed. Our family would like to express our sincere and heartfelt thanks to the emergency services who responded. We are particularly grateful to the RNLI and the coastguard. Their dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts during this extremely difficult time were invaluable.”

They added that they were “profoundly grateful” for the compassion shown by responders. They asked for privacy as relatives and friends come to terms with the loss.

Floral tributes have since been placed near the beach. Messages remember those who went missing at sea on Christmas Day. Local residents described the atmosphere in the town as subdued, with many offering condolences to the families affected.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said officers remain in the area and are supporting the families involved. Formal identification procedures and missing person inquiries are ongoing.

Cold-water swimming groups and maritime safety organizations regularly warn that winter sea temperatures can pose serious risks. These risks affect even experienced swimmers. This is due to cold shock, strong currents, and rapidly changing conditions.

Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is being urged to contact police.