A desperate search unfolded along the Devon coastline today after two men vanished in the sea near Budleigh Salterton. The incident occurred despite warnings of challenging weather conditions and the cancellation of numerous Christmas and Boxing Day swims.
Emergency services were alerted around 10:25 am to reports of individuals struggling in the water. A massive response was launched, involving coastguard rescue teams from Exmouth and Beer, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth, and Torbay, and search and rescue helicopters sweeping the area.
The operation continued throughout the day, battling choppy waters and a lingering yellow weather warning for wind. Despite their relentless efforts, the search for the two men proved agonizingly difficult.
As darkness descended, the coastguard component of the search was reluctantly stood down at 5 pm, leaving police to continue inquiries on land. The focus remained firmly on locating the missing men and providing answers to their families.
Authorities confirmed that next of kin for one of the men had been notified, while efforts to reach the family of the second man were underway. A friend of the second man had been informed as part of the ongoing process.
Paramedics treated and transported one person to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, while two others received care and were discharged at the scene. The full extent of the incident’s impact is still unfolding.
Police are urgently appealing to the public to avoid entering the water, citing the hazardous conditions and the ongoing risk to safety. This plea extends to anyone considering a Boxing Day swim, even with the official weather warnings lifted.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable power of the sea and the importance of heeding safety warnings, particularly during periods of inclement weather. The community remains deeply concerned as the search continues.
