Police in Devon have issued a stark warning against entering the sea after two men disappeared while swimming on Christmas morning. An extensive search operation involving multiple emergency services was called off on Thursday evening after failing to locate the pair.
Christmas Morning Tragedy at Budleigh Salterton
Devon and Cornwall Police were alerted at 10.25am on Christmas Day following reports of concern for people in the water off Budleigh Salterton beach. The two men, aged in their 40s and 60s, were reported to be in difficulty in the challenging conditions.
HM Coastguard coordinated a major response to the incident, deploying rescue teams from Exmouth and Beer. RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth, and Torbay were also launched to assist in the search amid what were described as huge waves.
Search Called Off as Weather Warnings Bite
Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar from Devon and Cornwall Police addressed the media on Thursday evening. "Today, emergency services have been responding to a truly tragic incident in Budleigh Salterton," she stated.
She emphasised the severe conditions, noting, "There have been weather warnings in place this week and a number of official and unofficial swims have already been cancelled." The search was ultimately stood down as light faded on Christmas Day.
Public Urged to Heed Safety Advice
In a direct appeal to the public, Detective Superintendent Costar urged: "We urge anyone with plans to go swimming in the sea on Boxing Day not to." The warning comes as a yellow weather warning for wind covered parts of the South West, leading to the cancellation of several planned festive swims in Devon and Cornwall.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the power of the sea, particularly during winter storms. Authorities continue to stress that even experienced swimmers can be overcome by sudden changes in conditions, especially when official weather warnings are active.
