What was meant to be a festive sea dip on Christmas morning ended in heartbreak along the coast at Budleigh Salterton in east Devon.
Dozens of swimmers, some wearing Santa hats, rushed into the water as part of the seasonal tradition.
Within moments, towering waves driven by strong winds turned the scene dangerous, leaving swimmers struggling and onlookers helpless as events spiralled out of control.
Teacher Named as Second Victim of the Tragedy
Tom Johnson, a 47-year-old PE teacher and father of two, has now been formally identified as the second person to lose his life that day.
Johnson is believed to have died while attempting to rescue antiques dealer Matthew Upham, who was already in difficulty in the water.
Witnesses on the pebble beach said the conditions deteriorated almost instantly, with swimmers knocked off their feet by powerful swells and trapped in thick foam.
A Chain of Brave but Fatal Decisions
According to accounts given to investigators, Matthew Upham, 63, had initially made it close to shore before spotting a woman struggling beyond the surf line.
Despite the risks, he swam back out to help her.
Moments later, a huge wave crashed into him and dragged him under.
It is believed Tom Johnson then entered the water in a desperate attempt to save Upham, but he too was overwhelmed by the conditions.
Hundreds Watch in Horror From the Shore
The tragedy unfolded in full view of a large crowd gathered on the beach.
People watched as swimmers disappeared beneath waves and others were pulled back by rescuers.
Several participants were later taken to hospital after being helped ashore.
Despite the presence of emergency services, the sea proved unforgiving.
Inquest Opens Into Tom Johnson’s Death
Devon coroner Deborah Archer formally opened an inquest into Johnson’s death at a hearing in Exeter.
She confirmed that he entered the water with members of the public on Christmas Day and was later lost from sight.
His body was discovered nearly a month later, on January 20, at Sandy Bay in Exmouth.
The exact cause of death has yet to be determined, and the inquest has been adjourned.
Tributes Pour In for a Beloved Teacher
Johnson taught PE at New Hall School in Boreham, an independent boarding school where he worked for 17 years.
Colleagues and former pupils described him as inspirational, energetic and deeply kind.
A fundraiser launched for his family has already raised £30,000, with tributes praising his passion for sport, his dedication to young people, and the warmth he brought to everyday life.
Remembering Matthew Upham’s Final Act
Matthew Upham, who ran an antiques business and specialised in chandeliers, was well known locally and online through YouTube videos about antiques.
Friends say he was an exceptionally strong swimmer who knew the Devon coastline intimately and swam there almost daily.
Those close to him insist he did not act recklessly, but instinctively, choosing to help someone else rather than save himself.
Friends and Loved Ones Share Emotional Tributes
A friend of three decades described Upham as selfless to the core, saying there was “only ever going to be one outcome” once he saw someone in trouble.
Singer Kate Bush, a close friend, also paid tribute, calling him extraordinarily kind, full of life and deeply respectful of the sea. Upham’s family echoed those sentiments in a social media statement, thanking the RNLI and coastguard for their efforts and asking for privacy as they grieve.
What Happens Next
While the inquest into Tom Johnson’s death has begun, a separate inquest into Matthew Upham’s death has yet to be opened.
As investigations continue, the community remains shaken by the loss of two men remembered not just for how they died, but for the courage and compassion they showed in their final moments.
