Registration has been officially launched for St Elizabeth Hospice’s annual Christmas Day Dip. Panto stars the Ugly Sisters dipped their gnarly toes into the cold sea off Felixstowe to signal the opening of registration of the popular mass participation sponsored event.
The sisters Veruca and Hernia, played by Dean Wales and Ian Quickfall in this year’s Dennis Lowe pantomime Cinderella at the Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe, were joined by Hospice supporters including Peter Burt, of Felixstowe, for the launch on Saturday 13th November.
Mr Burt, who first came up with the idea of a Christmas Day dip braved the waves for a swim on Saturday with Matt Burt and Michael Bird . Mr Burt started the dip in the swimming pool in his back garden with just seven people five years ago.
Coastguards Robert Beecham and Barry Twomey were on hand to oversee proceedings.
Last year 200 people spent their Christmas morning paddling or swimming in the sea raising around £35,000 for the Hospice and this year around 300 people are expected to sign up. Many find it a good way of starting what can be a difficult day for someone who is remembering a loved-one.
St Elizabeth Hospice’s community fundraiser Rachel Mittell said: “Christmas is a lovely time of year to give something back and remember a loved-one. The Christmas Day Dip has grown in popularity every year and this year we hope it will raise £40,000 to help us to continue to support people throughout East Suffolk who have a progressive illness.
“Why not come along first thing, do your dip with friends and family watching, then go home to open your presents and enjoy your Christmas dinner. What a great way to start the festivities.”
The dip in the water takes place at 10am opposite Manning’s Amusement Park on Sea Road, Felixstowe. Mulled wine and minced pies will be served afterwards.
The registration fee is £5 per person and participants are asked to raise sponsorship. To download a Christmas Day Dip registration click here. Or for more information contact the fundraising team on 01473 723600 or by email fundraising@stelizabethhospice.org.uk.
Cinderella is at the Spa Pavilion from December 18th to January 3rd. For more details visit www.thespapavilion.org or call 01384 28212.