On Christmas Day, a festive swim turned tragic as two men went missing off the Devon coast, prompting a large-scale emergency response. The incident occurred at Budleigh Salterton, where Devon and Cornwall Police were alerted at 10:25 GMT about swimmers in distress. Despite the efforts of emergency services, including coastguard rescue teams and RNLI lifeboats, the search was called off at 5pm without locating the missing men, aged in their 40s and 60s.

Emergency Response and Search Efforts

A significant deployment of emergency personnel, including coastguard helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, scoured the shoreline and offshore areas. While several swimmers were safely brought ashore and checked by paramedics, the two men remain unaccounted for. Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar expressed the community's concern, stating, "Our thoughts remain firmly with the families and friends of the two men who are currently missing."

Weather Warnings and Event Cancellations

The incident coincided with a yellow weather warning issued by the Met Office, forecasting strong and gusty winds across the south-west of England. This led to the cancellation of numerous Christmas and Boxing Day swims in Devon and Cornwall. The Met Office warned of potential disruptions to transport and power supplies, with large waves posing additional hazards along the coast.

Sea Safety and Upcoming Events

In East Yorkshire, the annual New Year's Day swim in Hornsea is set to return after being canceled last year due to sewage discharges. Stephen Hall, Coxwain of Hornsea Inshore Rescue, emphasized the event's importance, saying, "It's critical for the running of our life-saving efforts for the whole year." Participants are encouraged to register at the lifeboat station from 11:00 GMT.

Authorities continue to urge caution, advising against sea swimming during adverse weather conditions to ensure public safety.