The second body believed to be that of a missing swimmer from the Christmas Day dip at Budleigh Salterton in Devon was recovered from the sea off Exmouth on Sunday afternoon, January 25. This discovery follows a large-scale emergency response involving police, coastguard, and rescue teams.
Emergency services were called to Exmouth Beach around 3 p.m. after reports of a possible body near the shore. The recovered individual is thought to be Matthew Upham, one of two men who disappeared in stormy waters during the annual Christmas swim, where several participants faced dangerous conditions.
Witnesses near Orcombe Point reported a significant emergency presence, including multiple marked and unmarked police cars, coastguard vehicles, and the inshore lifeboat stationed offshore. A police cordon was established, restricting public access from Orcombe Point to Sandy Bay.
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Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the recovery but are yet to complete formal identification. The family of a 64-year-old Budleigh Salterton resident has been informed of the development.
Previously, the body of the other missing swimmer was found on January 20 along the shore at Sandy Bay, Exmouth. Although not officially identified, authorities believe him to be the 47-year-old man who did not return from the swim. His next-of-kin have also been notified.
On Boxing Day, Mr. Upham’s family publicly acknowledged his loss. They expressed heartfelt gratitude to the emergency services—including the RNLI and coastguard—for their professional and compassionate response under challenging circumstances. The family also requested privacy during this difficult time.
The identity of the other swimmer has not yet been publicly disclosed. Inquests into both deaths are expected to be opened as investigations continue.