An antiques dealer known for his kindness is feared to have been swept away at sea while taking a Christmas Day swim. Matthew Upham, 63, is one of two men missing after encountering rough waters at Budleigh Salterton in Devon. The second man, in his 40s, is also missing and is presumed to have drowned while attempting to rescue Upham.
Emergency services responded to reports of people in distress in the sea due to strong winds at Budleigh Salterton beach. Despite rescue efforts, two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, could not be located. Search operations involving various rescue teams and lifeboats were initiated but were halted at nightfall with the men still unaccounted for.
Described by friends as kind and cheerful, Upham is a familiar figure in the local community. His regular swimming routine and familiarity with the waters have raised hopes that he may have found refuge along the shore after being carried away by a wave.
Christmas and Boxing Day swims in the region had been canceled due to adverse weather conditions, including strong winds. A BBC journalist present at the scene noted the unusually rough sea conditions, emphasizing the need for caution before entering the water.