Disorganised in the best possible way, hundreds took the plunge for the annual Boxing Day swim in Swanage.
The event used to be organised in order to raise money for charity, but with insurance becoming prohibitive, it stopped being officially planned.
Getting ready to go
Firm fixture in the Swanage Christmas calendar
But like all the best traditions, it has become a firm fixture in the Swanage Christmas calendar and went ahead as swimmers just turned up.
So at 11 am on Sunday 26th December 2021, hundreds, many in fancy dress, ran towards the sea and took a dip in the cold and bracing water.
Less chilly than in previous years
Helped by the relatively mild air temperature of around 11 degrees celsius or 52 degrees fahrenheit, it was less chilly than in previous years as swimmers waited to jump in.
Once in the water, the sea temperature in Swanage Bay was also an estimated 11 degrees celsius, around the average for the time of year.
While for some it’s a quick dip, there’s always a few who are determined to be the last to come back in!
Donations to #Willdoes
The sea in Swanage is at its coldest in March with an average water temperature of 9 degrees celsius or 48 degrees fahrenheit, and warmest in September with an average temperature of 17 degrees celsius or 63 degrees fahrenheit.
While not an organised event, anyone who wished to, could donate to the local charity #Willdoes that helps young people achieve wellbeing.
