Seventy people take part in the traditional New Year's Day dip at Woolacombe
WHILE most of us were tucked up warm in front of the telly, a brave band of souls took the plunge in the traditional New Year's Day dip at Woolacombe.
About 70 hardy individuals braved a cold breeze and chilly sea.
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ON YOUR MARKS: Members of Woolacombe Surf Life Saving Club prepare for the New Year's Day swim before dashing into the chilly waves for a quick dip. Picture: Mike Southon Ref: BNMS20130101B-004_C
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IN THE SWIM: Sophie, 11, and Paul Wilkinson, from Bideford, heading back to dry land after enjoying the waves. Picture: Mike Southon Ref: BNMS20130101B-018_C
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BRAVE SWIMMERS: Heading back to dry land after enjoying the waves. Picture: Mike Southon Ref: BNMS20130101B-019_C
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Two swimmers enjoy the waves. Picture: Mike Southon Ref: BNMS20130101B-015_C
No wetsuits were allowed, although some people wore T-shirts and baggy bottoms.
Don Duffield, who organised the event on behalf of Woolacombe Surf Life Saving Club, said: "You had to get 'all over' wet. It was a case of in and under a wave and back out again."
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Most of the dippers were club members and the rest were friends and relatives. The oldest to brave the waves was 72.
Don, who was taking part for the 13th successive year, said that it all boiled down to having the right frame of mind.
He said: "You get down there and have your mind set to do it. And once one person starts, the others follow."
The event started off in 2000 as a bit of a joke and has carried on ever since.
And, although fundraising was not the primary objective, there was a collection box on the beach for people to make a donation if they wished.
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