Thanet Lifeguard Club members brave their December dip

Thanet Lifeguard Club members get ready to dip!

Members of the Thanet Lifeguard Club have braved the chilly waters for a December dip at Westbrook beach.

Festive greetings were circulated and a safety briefing was held before the swimmers took to the beach and gathered on the sand for photos.

With a brisk countdown it was off into sea, with cries of “ooh, aah, ooooh, aaaah, that is freezing!”

Twelve swimmers ran head long into the chilly waters, a few managed 20 metres plus swimming while others were quite happy just to submerge under the water.

Some who were not so brave came out quickly but after assessing the accomplishment of others, took a deep breath, re-entered the sea and completely submerged themselves.

After swimmers had changed in the warm comfort of the clubhouse, well deserved hot beverages and snacks were served.  Presentations medals were award to all.

During club sessions and before the event members discussed and learned to look for the signs of Cold Water Shock.

The effects of cold water shock are responsible for many of the drownings which occur in the UK every year. The  shock affects the ability to swim and self-rescue.

If you would like to learn more and would be interested in either joining Thanet Lifeguard Club or supporting its cause, along with the Royal Lifesaving Society, then email [email protected] or go to https://www.facebook.com/Thanet-Lifeguard-Club-916240861769332/

Swimmers: Nikita Goldsmith, Megan Morgan,Molly Mayo, Cheyenne Goldsmith. Georgia Wilkinson,Faye Burnap, Vicki Wilkinson, Joanne Wilson, Martin Fossey, Steve Goldsmith, Neil Morgan, Christopher Wilson, Shaun Garland.

Take the plunge

Photo James Pringle

Western Undercliff annual Winter dip

Meet at the artificial beach at the Western Undercliff on 30 December at 9:30am

Queen’s Head New Year’s Day dip on Ramsgate Main Sands.

All those taking part will meet at the pub at 11am, taking the dip at noon. There will be soup, rolls and live  music at the Harbour Parade pub afterwards. All proceeds go to Ronald McDonald Houses and for anyone wanting to take part sponsorship forms are available from the bar.

Walpole Bay

The Walpole Bay Swimmers are planning a New Year’s Day swim at the tidal pool at 1pm.

Neptunes Hall annual New Year’s Day charity swim for Children’s Liver Disease Foundation

Sponsor forms available behind the bar

All swimmers to meet in the bar at 11.30am and down to Viking Bay for swim at midday

Curry and music from Paul One Love after. All donations welcome and volunteers neede to carry the charity buckets on the beach that day.