Exmouth RNLI volunteer crew attend Budleigh Music Festival RNLI benefit concert

The town of Budleigh Salterton was deeply affected by the tragic events of Christmas Day 2025 when two men perished at sea. Matthew Upham was one of those men and a dear friend and supporter of the festival, as well as a patron of the arts and passionate music lover. The special concert was an opportunity to honour his life, bringing together close friends and exceptional artists in support of the work of the RNLI. 

The concert featured Soprano Sky Ingram, Saxophonist Huw Wiggin, Palm Court music from Rebecca Smith and her trio, and award-winning composer and pianist Mark Chait. The professionalism, creativity and skill shown by the artists was a revelation.

The RNLI’s Chief Executive, Peter Sparkes, also attended the event, along with regional RNLI staff and volunteer crew members from Exmouth’s lifeboat station, some of whom were on duty on Christmas Day 2025. Peter Sparkes spoke about the events of that day, thanking the RNLI crews and other emergency services, as well as the Budleigh community and the Festival committee for their support. In a very moving evening, the love and high regard in which Matthew Upham is held by his friends was evident to all who attended.

The cost of delivering the event was covered by Matthew Upham's friends and corporate sponsors, in order that all proceeds will benefit the RNLI. In addition, more than £1600 was generously donated by concert goers on the night – a level of support shown by the audience and the community by which the RNLI volunteers and staff in attendance were truly humbled.

Kate Somerby, Budleigh Music Festival Director, said, "Thursday night was a truly tremendous occasion and one which will live long in the memory of the Festival. Thank you [to the RNLI] for coming on board so wholeheartedly, and for helping the town, friends and family of Matthew, and indeed Festival and lifeboat volunteers, come together in a cathartic moment that will help everyone move on from the tragedy. We have learned so much through our partnership with you. We want to continue to welcome you and your supporters to our Festival in coming years, and will shortly be looking at how we can create a lasting legacy that is mutually beneficial to our charities."

Notes to editors