Singer Kate Bush has expressed she is "heartbroken" after her close friend Matthew Upham went missing during a Christmas Day swim in Devon. The 63-year-old antiques dealer is one of two men who remain unaccounted for following a rescue operation in stormy waters at Budleigh Salterton.
Multiple people were pulled from the sea on Christmas morning, with some treated by paramedics and others taken to hospital as a precaution. The coastguard conducted extensive shoreline and offshore searches until 5pm on Christmas Day before standing down the operation. Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed on Boxing Day that both men remain missing and inquiries are ongoing.
Kate Bush's Tribute
Bush announced on her website on Sunday that she was devastated by the disappearance of Upham, describing him as one of her dearest friends of 30 years. «Matthew was one of my very dearest friends. I'd known him for 30 years», she wrote. «He was one of those people who touched everyone he met.»
The singer praised Upham's character and zest for life. «He was extraordinarily kind, thoughtful and lived life to the full», Bush said. «He was also a great deal of fun.» She emphasized his swimming ability: «Matthew was a very strong swimmer. He had a great love for kayaking. He understood that the sea should be respected.»
Bush concluded her tribute: «The world has lost someone incredibly special. Thank-you Matthew, for being one of the best friends anyone could have.»
Family Thanks Emergency Services
Upham's family communicated their grief through his business's Instagram account, describing themselves as «heartbroken by the loss». They expressed gratitude to rescue teams: «We would like to express our sincere and heartfelt thanks to the emergency services who responded, particularly the RNLI and coastguard, for their dedication, professionalism, and tireless efforts during this extremely difficult time.»
Friends flooded the post with tributes. One described Upham as «the kindest person», adding: «The world will miss such a shining star.» Another called him «a beautiful man with the sweetest soul and only had kind words to say about everyone». A third friend characterized him as «a bringer of joy and an inspiration».
The Daily Mail reported that Upham attempted to save a woman in distress before being swept away.
Warnings About Winter Swimming
Upham ran Matthew Upham Antiques, an appointment-only business on High Street in Budleigh Salterton. His shop specialized in European chandeliers and 18th-century furniture, having relocated from London where he traded for four decades.
East Devon District Council issued a warning on Thursday afternoon urging people to «think twice before taking the plunge this festive season», citing cold water shock, strong currents, and unpredictable weather. A yellow weather warning for wind led to the cancellation of multiple Christmas and Boxing Day swims across Devon and Cornwall.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
