9 December 2024

Can new year swim beat 2022 record?

Hornsea Inshore Rescue is counting down to its annual sponsored New Year’s Day dip in the North Sea.

The event takes place at noon on Sunday, January 1, at the southern promenade slipway. Swimmers are asked to assemble at the Inshore Rescue boathouse and register from 11am.

Organisers are hoping for a big turnout and to beat last year’s record of 276 people who went in for a quick swim or just for a bit of fun. Fancy dress is optional – but there are usually quite a few people wearing quirky costumes.

Swimmers will as usual be led down to the sea’s edge by a Scottish piper and Hornsea Inshore Rescue crew will be on hand to make sure everyone is safe. Warm refreshments will also be available for swimmers and spectators alike.

Last year’s event attracted about 2,500 people who came to watch.

All participants must register prior to the event and sponsorship forms are available from Robinson’s News, Paul’s Barbers and Hampson’s Electric in Newbegin, No 10 Coffee Shop in the Market Place and all Hornsea pubs as well as online at hornsearescue.org.uk or from [email protected].

Hornsea Inshore Rescue is a totally independent local rescue organisation supported solely by donations and grants and receives no government nor RNLI funding. It also raises funds by running courses on water safety, RYA courses for certificates in offshore powerboating, jet ski handling, VHF radio certification and the RYA one-day first aid course.

It also offers corporate 999 days, where groups can experience a day as a member of the crew on a training day followed by a full mock rescue experience, as well as school visits where children can learn about the rescue organisation and water safety in general.

Visitors and volunteers are always welcome whether they would like to serve as crew (comprehensive training is given), fundraisers or general helpers.

Anyone interested is welcome to phone Sue on 07796 257989 or Ian on 01964 534302.