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Swimmers to take the plunge this Christmas

Swimmers to take the plunge this Christmas

Saturday 24 December 2022

Swimmers to take the plunge this Christmas

Saturday 24 December 2022


Thousands are expected to brave the sea as two festive holiday traditions take place over the next two days.

The Polar Bear Swim on Christmas Day is organised by the Guernsey Swimming Club and dates back more than 50 years.

Then the following day is the Boxing Day Dip at Cobo, which raises money for the Guernsey Cheshire Home.

The sea temperature is currently around 10.4C.

On Christmas Day, Guernsey Swimming Club Directors Jo Norman and Chris Butt will be at La Vallette from 09:30 to 11:00 signing certificates for those brave enough to take a dip.

“This is a great local event aimed at all ages and abilities,” the club said.

“It provides a fantastic family friendly festive atmosphere down at the historic pools where the club first started in 1886.” 

The swim is free while the cafe at the La Vallette will also be open providing hot drinks and a warm fire.

This year’s Boxing Day Dip begins at 11:00 on Monday 26 December.

People are encouraged to congregate on the beach before running towards the sea together. 

Endurance swimmer Adrian Sarchet will start the event.

In 2021 more than 2,000 swimmers turned out, some donning fancy dress while the organisers gave out mince pies, mulled wine and hot drinks.

All funds raised go towards the upkeep of the Guernsey Cheshire Home, where annual costs are currently around £1,100,000.

Nic Mountain, Manager at Guernsey’s Cheshire Home, said: “The Boxing day Dip is something of a Guernsey tradition and the sight of thousands of swimmers running towards the sea in their Santa hats is quite special. We are thrilled that Skipton is continuing to partner with us, and, with their valuable support, we look forward to raising much-needed funds for the Cheshire Home.”

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