Two individuals feared lost at sea near Devon beach on Christmas Day
Two individuals are thought to be missing in the waters off a beach in Devon, following reports of several people experiencing difficulties. Emergency services were alerted to Budleigh Salterton at 10:25 am on Christmas Day due to concerns regarding individuals in the water. Multiple people were successfully brought back to the shore, with two assessed by paramedics and one transported to the hospital by ambulance as a precaution.
A representative from Devon and Cornwall police stated: “Next of kin for one man has been contacted. Efforts to reach the family of the second man are still ongoing; however, a local friend has been made aware as part of these outreach attempts. “A substantial number of emergency service personnel were dispatched to the scene, and we urge individuals not to enter the water for safety reasons—this applies today as well as for any Boxing Day swims due to existing weather warnings.” In a statement, the Coastguard mentioned that its search operation was called off at 5 pm.
A spokesperson remarked: “Notified around 10 am, the Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth, and Torbay, along with coastguard search and rescue helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft were deployed to assist, in addition to police and the ambulance service. “Search operations persisted throughout the day to locate two men believed to still be in the water. After comprehensive shoreline and offshore searches, the coastguard component of the search was concluded at 5 pm.” Several Christmas and Boxing Day swims in Devon and Cornwall were canceled this year owing to a yellow weather warning for wind.
The Met Office issued a warning for “strong and gusty east to northeasterly winds” from 4 am to 11:59 pm on Christmas Day across portions of the south-west of England and Wales. It indicated that peak gusts would range from 45 to 55 mph, although some exposed coastlines and areas west of significant hills could experience gusts reaching 55 to 65 mph. Disruptions to transport and power supplies may occur, the forecaster warned. It also added: “Large waves will pose an additional threat along certain coastlines.” Anyone possessing information that could aid in the search for the swimmers is encouraged to reach out to Devon and Cornwall police by calling 101 or visiting the force’s website, referencing log number 191 of December 25.
Published: 2025-12-25 17:21:00
source: www.theguardian.com
