Western Undercliff
The winter dip takes place on December 30 at 1pm on Ramsgate’s artificial beach in association with Western Undercliff Regeneration Group.
Last year some 100 people turned out to take part in the annual event before going on to the Hotel De Ville in Grange Road for a warming curry and drink.
The ‘just for fun’ dip is organised by Maxine Morgan from the Western Undercliff Regeneration Group.
Broadstairs
Start the New Year with a bracing swim in the sea at Viking Bay on January 1 to raise money for Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF)!
Organisers Jill and Kenny Connell have had more enquiries than ever this year and are expecting a bumper turnout.
Jill said: “It’s wonderful that this has become a Broadstairs tradition.
“Since the first New’ Year’s Day Dip in 2002, we’re really proud to have raised over £64,000 for CLDF and are determined to boost that total further this year.
“Over 100 swimmers took to the waters last year and we’re hoping for even more this time. Whether you’re a hardy soul who’s happy to brave the waves or you just stand and shiver and make a donation, we don’t mind – it’s a fun event!”
Swimmers will be invited to meet at The George Inn, Broadstairs by 11.30am ready for the midday plunge at Viking Bay. All those taking part will be welcome back to The George afterwards for some warming curry.
Jill said: “It’s a wonderful way to start the New Year for a fantastic cause. Joining in is easy. You can grab a sponsorship form from The George Inn beforehand or simply make a £10 donation on the day.”
Michelle Wilkins, Head of Services at CLDF added: “We are the only UK charity dedicated to fighting all forms of childhood liver disease and we rely on voluntary donations so we are delighted and very grateful to the people of Broadstairs, and especially to Jill and Kenny for this fantastic tradition which makes a big difference to a small charity like ours. Good luck to all the brave souls who are taking the plunge that day!”
For further information or to volunteer on the day contact Kenny Connell on 07505094631
For more information on CLDF visit childliverdisease.org.
Ramsgate Main Sands
New Year’s Day dip raising funds 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.
The couple were able to spend a very precious week with their baby son, who passed away peacefully in their arms.
The couple stayed at the Evelina Ronald McDonald House and pledged to raise money for the vital service.
The Ronald McDonald house enables families with babies or children in hospital to stay at the house free of charge for as long as they need.
Meet on January 1, 2024, from 11am at the Queen’s Head pub in Harbour Parade ready for the dip from the main sands at noon. Fancy dress judging will take place at 11,45am on the beach
Hot soup and music at the pub afterwards
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
Suggested minimum donation of £10 (online or on the day)
Online donation can be made on JustGiving at https://rb.gy/34ptmx
Westgate
Meet at St Mildred’s Bay on New Year’s Day in time for a 12.30pm dip.
Paul at St Mildred’s Bay Bistro will supply free hot drinks again for all dippers.
Minnis Bay
Dippers are invited to meet at the slope by The Minnis restaurant at 2pm.
The Bluetits – Birchington On Sea will also be dipping on New Year’s Day, meeting 2.30pm at Minnis Bay.
Thanet Lifeguard Club
Thanet Lifeguard Club holds its annual Winter swim on Sunday 7th January.
The dip takes place at 10am on Westbrook beach, off the Royal Esplanade.