Two men are currently missing after a group participated in a Christmas Day swim at Budleigh Salterton beach in southern England, as confirmed by local authorities. The incident occurred on December 25, 2023, when the group encountered unexpectedly rough waters. The Devon and Cornwall Police were alerted at 10:25 a.m. and promptly responded to the scene.
While several individuals were successfully brought back to shore and treated by paramedics, two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, have not yet been located. Police conducted extensive searches throughout the day but had to suspend efforts as darkness fell. Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar expressed her condolences in a statement, saying, “Our thoughts remain firmly with the families and friends of the two men who are currently missing and to all who may have witnessed and be impacted by the incident.”
Authorities reported that multiple weather warnings had been issued prior to Christmas Day, advising against swimming due to hazardous conditions. The Met Office had issued a warning for “strong and gusty east to northeasterly winds,” with gusts reaching up to 65 mph. In light of these warnings, many official and unofficial swimming events were canceled.
Detective Superintendent Costar reiterated the risks associated with swimming in the sea during adverse weather conditions. “While there are no official warnings in place for tomorrow, we urge anyone with plans to go swimming in the sea on Boxing Day not to,” she cautioned.
The police continue to monitor the situation closely and are working with local agencies to provide support to the families affected by this tragic incident. As the search efforts were halted on Christmas Day, the community remains hopeful for a positive outcome.