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On Christmas Day, what began as a festive tradition in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, ended in heartbreak. Two men went missing in the sea after joining a winter swim. Despite hours of rescue work, the coastguard suspended their search. Police and emergency teams continued land enquiries. Families were informed. The town was left in shock.
This article explains the incident in full. It covers what happened, why the search was called off, eyewitness accounts, official responses, safety warnings, and what this means for future beach swims.
What Happened on Christmas Day
At about 10:25 GMT on December 25, emergency services were alerted to swimmers in difficulty off Budleigh Salterton beach on the Devon coastline. Many people had gathered for a traditional Christmas Day swim.
As waves grew larger and weather conditions worsened, multiple swimmers struggled in the water. Rescue teams pulled several people to safety. But two men — one in his 40s and the other in his 60s — went missing and could not be found.
The HM Coastguard, RNLI lifeboat crews, coastguard helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, police, and ambulance teams joined the search. Despite hours of effort, the coastguard called off the sea search at around 17:00 as daylight faded and conditions stayed dangerous.
Police confirmed that shoreline checks and land enquiries continued into the evening.
Why the Search Was Called Off
The decision to stop the sea search followed a full assessment of risk and conditions. Emergency teams cited several key factors:
- Poor visibility as darkness fell
- Strong winds and heavy swell
- Increasing danger to rescue crews
Authorities explained that continuing offshore searches at night would have placed responders at serious risk. While sea operations stopped, police continued work on land and remained in contact with the families.
Severe Weather and Sea Conditions
Weather conditions played a major role in the incident. A yellow wind warning was in place across southwest England on Christmas Day. Winds were strong, and the sea was unsettled.
Residents described the water as rough and unpredictable. Some said the waves looked manageable from a distance but felt dangerous once people entered the sea.
Emergency services later urged the public to avoid sea swimming in the area, even after Christmas Day, as conditions remained unsafe.
Eyewitness Accounts from the Beach
People who witnessed the swim described a sharp change in mood as conditions worsened.
Several swimmers said waves were breaking over their heads. Some estimated the waves reached five to six feet. Others recalled people being knocked down by the force of the water.
One resident said the sea looked “ferocious” and unlike anything they had seen before. Another described the event as shocking, especially given the festive setting.
Many said the tragedy felt heavier because it happened on Christmas Day, a time usually linked with joy and family.
Emergency Response and Rescue Effort
Once the alert was raised, emergency teams responded quickly:
- Coastguard rescue teams arrived from nearby stations
- RNLI lifeboats were launched from surrounding ports
- Rescue helicopters and aircraft searched from the air
- Police and ambulance crews managed the shoreline
The response involved multiple agencies working together under difficult conditions. Several swimmers were safely brought back to shore during the operation.
Despite these efforts, the two missing men were not located.
Community Reaction
The small coastal town of Budleigh Salterton has been deeply affected. Residents described the incident as tragic and heartbreaking.
Locals praised the courage and dedication of rescue teams who worked in rough seas on a public holiday. Many expressed sympathy for the families and friends of the missing men.
The beach, normally a place of calm during winter, became a scene of silence and reflection by the evening.
Police and Official Statements
Police described the incident as truly tragic. Officers confirmed that the families of the missing men had been informed and were receiving support.
Authorities also urged people to think carefully before entering the sea during winter months. Even experienced swimmers can be caught off guard by sudden changes in waves and wind.
Public safety messages were repeated in the days following the incident.
Safety Warnings After the Incident
Emergency services highlighted important safety advice:
- Avoid swimming when waves are large
- Do not underestimate winter sea conditions
- Check weather warnings before coastal activities
- Call emergency services immediately if someone is in danger
Officials stressed that festive swims can be risky, especially when weather conditions shift quickly.
What Happens Next
As of now:
- The sea search has officially ended
- Police enquiries on land continue
- The two men remain missing
- Support remains in place for affected families
There has been no further update on the outcome.
