Make a new tradition this Christmas…

St Elizabeth Hospice’s Christmas Day Dip returns to Felixstowe seafront for its 16th annual event.

The popular festive challenge attracts more than 500 dippers each year, all braving the icy North sea on Christmas morning, as well as a large crowd cheering them on creating an incredible atmosphere.

It’s a fantastic way to start the Christmas celebrations, all whilst raising money to help St Elizabeth Hospice provide vital care and support to local people when they need it most.

The Christmas Day Dip was initially founded by hospice supporter Peter Burt in the early 2000’s, and when passers-by wanted to donate he decided to give the money to the hospice.

Peter chose St Elizabeth Hospice as his father had been a great supporter, and would come and encourage them at the swim each year. Subsequently Peter’s father became unwell, and ultimately received care and support from the hospice in the last days of his life.

Since then, the dip has continued to grow, and so Peter and his family decided to hand the reigns over to the hospice.

Peter explains: “We as a family want to give back to others what we as a family received from the hospice. Although I now cannot do the swim due to medical reasons, my family and friends continue to support the swim each year, and I come and cheer them on and raise money as well.

“I am so happy that the swim continues to get bigger and better. It is so special for us and makes us proud for my dad as well.”

Tickets for the challenge are now live, and those that sign up before Friday 15 November can join for just £8 per person with early bird prices, saving £5 per person.

Thank you to our event sponsor David Button Independent Funeral Directors who is supporting the event for the second year in a row.

To find out more about the Christmas Day Dip.