Body found after disappearance of two swimmers off Devon coast on Christmas Day
The body of a man was found on the shore at Exmouth beach yesterday
Last updated 21st Jan 2026
Police have confirmed that the body of a man has been found following the disappearance of two swimmers during a Christmas Day swim last year (2025) at Budleigh Salterton Beach.
Officers and HM Coastguard were called at 8.45am yesterday (January 20) after the man was discovered on the shore at Sandy Bay in Exmouth.
He was deceased at the scene.
Formal identification is yet to be carried out, but officers believe the man to be a 47-year-old who went missing at Budleigh Salterton Beach.
Police have informed his next-of-kin.
A second man in his 60s, who is local to East Devon remains missing at this time.
Superintendent Ryan Doyle said: “This discovery is very sad news following the upsetting and tragic incident on Christmas Day.
"We have spoken with his family and we are continuing to support them through this difficult time.
"Understandably they have asked for their privacy to be respected.
"The family of the second missing man has also been informed and are being supported. Our thoughts remain with them."