Kate Bush 'Heartbroken' After Friend Matthew Upham Vanishes During Christmas Day Swim

Singer Kate Bush has described herself as “heartbroken” after her friend, antiques dealer Matthew Upham, disappeared during an annual Christmas Day swim in Budleigh Salterton, Devon.

The 63-year-old Mr Upham was swept out to sea alongside another man after large waves struck the shoreline. Authorities mounted a search of the water that lasted about seven hours before the operation was called off; both men remain unaccounted for.

Matthew Upham is presumed dead. / Instagram/matthew_upham_antiques

Tributes From Friends And Family

Bush, 67, paid tribute to a friend she had known for around 30 years on her official website, calling him “extraordinarily kind, thoughtful” and “a great deal of fun.”

“He was one of those people who touched everyone he met. He was a very strong swimmer who respected the sea. It’s so tragic that he lost his life this way. The world has lost someone incredibly special.” — Kate Bush

Upham’s family posted a statement via his business Instagram account: “Matthew is deeply loved and will be forever missed.” They also expressed profound thanks to the emergency services, naming the RNLI and the coastguard for their dedication, professionalism and compassion during a difficult time.

Upham and a man in his 40s got into trouble in the sea. / Instagram/matthew_upham_antiques

Survivor Account And Conditions

A separate swimmer, identified as Mike Brown, 60, was rescued after bystanders waded into the surf. He described the conditions as treacherous, with roughly six-foot waves and wind gusts reaching about 65 mph. Two fully clothed members of the public helped pull him from the water after he said he had taken blows to the head and was exhausted.

Investigations and support efforts are ongoing, and the community in Budleigh Salterton has rallied around the families affected by the incident.