Christmas Swim Turns Deadly Off Devon Coast
A desperate search for two men in their 40s and 60s was called off after they got into trouble during a risky Christmas Day swim off Budleigh Salterton, Devon. Emergency services rushed to the scene at 10:25am as rough seas tossed swimmers about. Sadly, the men remain missing and their families have been informed.
Huge Rescue Effort Fails to Find Missing Swimmers
The Coastguard led a massive search involving teams from Exmouth and Beer, RNLI lifeboats, and helicopters from Teignmouth and Torbay. Shoreline and offshore teams scoured the area all day but had to stand down the operation at 5pm with no success.
Several others got into trouble amid fierce weather, with paramedics treating two at the scene and hospitalising one with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police Warn: Stay Out of the Sea!
A yellow weather warning was in place all day for gusty winds over 55mph. The Met Office cautioned about dangerous waves and possible transport and power disruption. Police have now urged everyone to avoid the water on Boxing Day as conditions are set to worsen.
Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar said: “Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of the two men who are currently missing. We ask anyone planning to swim in the sea on Boxing Day to reconsider given the dangerous conditions.”
Locals Shocked By Reckless Christmas Day Swims
Despite official warnings and cancellations, hundreds braved the freezing, rough waters at Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton for unofficial Christmas swims. Locals called the sea “cold,” “rough,” and “totally unsuitable” for swimming.
Visitor Melissa Hill said: “The conditions were dreadful – cold water, strong winds, crashing waves. I can’t believe anyone went in.”
Stay Safe This Holiday Season
- Do not enter the sea on Boxing Day – conditions remain extremely dangerous.
- Always follow official weather warnings and advice before heading near water.
- If you see someone in trouble, call 999 immediately. Do not put yourself at risk.
This tragedy is a grim reminder of the sea’s power, especially in stormy weather. Our thoughts are with those affected by this heartbreaking incident.
