People across Suffolk are being urged to ‘go quackers’ and sign up to take a dip in the North Sea in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice on Christmas Day.
The annual event reaches its 13th year in 2016 and was launched on Friday 14 October by ‘Jack’ and ‘Dame Tina Trott’ from this year’s pantomime at the Spa Pavilion, Jack and the Beanstalk, along with Suki the mascot for the Spa Pavilion and their rubber ducks on Felixstowe beach.
Around 400 people are expected to brave the chilly waters on Christmas morning to raise money for the hospice, with more than a thousand anticipated to turn up to watch the spectacle.
Catherine Sheppard, hospice events and challenges fundraiser, said: “The Christmas Day Dip is a firm favourite in the hospice fundraising calendar so we’re asking people to come down and join the fun in aid of a great cause. You can choose to go right in for a swim or just to dip as far as you dare.”
“Lots of people decide to dress up – although it’s not essential. We have seen all sorts of characters in the past from Christmas turkeys to penguins. Perhaps this year we’ll see some dames and ducks!”
All the sponsorship money raised from the event goes to St Elizabeth Hospice, supporting their work to improve life for local people living with a progressive illness.
Dame Tina Trott, played by Chris Fryer, said: “It’s a great event for people to take part in – although we hope there won’t be any ‘fowl’ weather.”
Jack, played by Jon Bingham, added: “All of us at the panto will be rooting for the brave souls who take part. I can’t wait to see their costumes – people dressing up always quacks me up!”
Anyone from the age of 13 upwards can take part for just £5 with the early bird offer until 14 November, or £10 afterwards. Those who sign up for the early bird offer will also be entered into a prize draw to win a family ticket (2 adults and 2 children) to see ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ at the Spa Pavilion on December 30 at 7pm. If you don’t fancy braving the dip yourself, you could join the crowds on the day, watch the fun and help cheer on friends and family who are taking part.
Christmas Day Dippers can register now by clicking here or on the day from 8.30am on Felixstowe beach, opposite Mannings Amusements.