Boxing Day dips raise charity cash
Dec 27 2008 by Kim Carmichael, The Journal
BRAVE swimmers headed for the beach yesterday to take a dip for charity. Hundreds of volunteers ran into the chilly waters of the North Sea at locations across the region, in what is an unmissable Christmas tradition for many.
In North Tyneside, the North Sea Volunteer Lifeguards held their annual Boxing Day Swim at Whitley Bay, with crowds turning out to show their support.
Among those braving the freezing conditions was Geoff Wade from the organisation. He said: “The dip went very well, with the biggest turnout we’ve ever had.
“About 130 people took part and the atmosphere was great.
“This is the eighth year that I’ve done it and the weather wasn’t too bad. We’re hoping to raise quite a bit.”
In South Shields, people turned out to raise cash for St Clare’s Hospice. Hundreds took part and it is estimated that thousands of pounds will be raised for the Jarrow-based hospice.
At Seaburn, near Sunderland, 937 people joined in, raising a record £70,356 for national and local charities.
The event, organised by the Sunderland Lions Club, started in 1974 with just 40 people braving the waters.
Lions spokeswoman, Anne Fielding, said: “We made a record amount this year and had so many people wanting to join in that we reached maximum capacity.
“Many people were in fancy dress and looked fantastic. One team attempted to go in on bikes and they actually managed to get quite far. It was very funny. The atmosphere was tremendous and everyone had a brilliant time.”
