Organisers are hoping that the 10th annual New Year’s Day dip in Ramsgate will be the biggest to date.
The event raises cash for Ronald McDonald Houses in memory of baby Joseph Brown.
John Brown and Vicki Boyle started the Dip in 2013 after they lost son Joseph in November 2012. Joseph arrived 14 weeks early on 27th September 2012 weighing only 1lb 11oz
He was transferred to St Thomas Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in London where the dedicated, caring staff looked after Joseph and his parents..
Vicki said: “We were able to hold Joseph’s hand, rest our hands on his head, and around him, We went shopping for some very soft blankets, John chose a special teddy and we picked lots of books with stories and nursery rhymes for our time with him.
“We treasured our moments spent with him – reading to him, singing to him, washing his little eyes; I never believed I could be so happy to change a nappy! In a different life, I am sure we could so easily have taken these moments for granted.
“After one short, but very precious week spent with our darling son, Joseph passed away peacefully in our arms. We shall treasure every second we had with him especially the time when we finally got to hold him close”.
The Ronald McDonald house enables families with babies or children in hospital, such as Joseph’s mum and dad, to stay at the house free of charge for as long as they need.
The couple stayed at the Evelina Ronald McDonald House and pledged to raise money for the vital service. The New Year’s Day dip for the cause began and has grown over the last ten years and raised more than £30,000.
The Queen’s Head pub hosts the event and provides hot soup and rolls afterwards.
Vicki and John say they also encourage people to buy off the Amazon wish list for the Evelina Ronald McDonald House as this is the one most Thanet people will use if they need the service.
Join the dip
Meet on January 1, 2023, from 10.30am at the Queen’s Head pub in Harbour Parade ready for the dip from the main sands at noon
Hot soup and music from Two’s Company at the pub afterwards from 1pm
Sponsor forms available behind the bar
Medals for every dipper, you must complete a registration form
Best fancy dress outfit gets a prize.
Collection pots are on the bar to raise even more money for Ronald McDonald House Charities United Kingdom
