Kate Bush Pays Emotional Tribute to ‘Dearest Friend’ Feared Dead After Christmas Day Sea Swim

Singer Kate Bush has shared a heartbreaking tribute to a close friend who is feared to have died after getting into trouble during a Christmas Day sea swim in Devon.

Matthew Upham, 63, an antique shop owner from Devon, went missing after entering the water at Budleigh Salterton beach on Christmas Day. The swim was attended by many people, several of whom reportedly struggled in rough conditions.

Despite extensive searches by the coastguard and RNLI, no trace has been found of Upham or another man believed to be in his 40s. Police have since confirmed that search and rescue operations have ended, and both men remain missing.

Bush, 67, said she had known Upham for 30 years and described him as one of the most important people in her life.

“Matthew was one of my dearest friends,” she said in an emotional message. “He was extraordinarily kind, thoughtful and lived life to the full. He was also a great deal of fun. His family is heartbroken, and with many of his friends, so am I.”

She added that Upham was an experienced and confident swimmer who respected the sea.

“He was a very strong swimmer and understood that the sea should be respected,” Bush said. “It’s so tragic he lost his life this way.”

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that emergency services responded to what they described as a “truly tragic incident.” Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar said officers’ thoughts were with the families and friends of the missing men, as well as anyone who witnessed the events.

She also warned the public about the dangers of swimming during unsettled weather. Although no official warnings were in place for Boxing Day, police urged people not to enter the sea, noting that several planned swims had already been cancelled due to conditions earlier in the week.

A friend of Upham later told the Mail on Sunday that he had entered the water to help a woman who appeared to be in distress.

“Matthew swam back out to reach her, but as he did so a huge wave crashed into him and dragged him under,” the friend said. “He hasn’t been seen since. He was exceptionally fit and swam those waters almost every day, but more than that, he was an incredibly selfless person.”

As the community comes to terms with the incident, tributes continue to pour in for a man remembered not only for his strength and fitness, but for his kindness and bravery in trying to help someone else in danger.