More than 600 brave the sea for St Elizabeth Hospice Christmas Day Dip in Felixstowe
The annual event helps the charity to continue supporting those who need help and their families.
More than 600 people took part in St Elizabeth Hospice’s annual Christmas Day Dip, plunging into the sea on Christmas morning to raise money for end-of-life care across Suffolk.
The festive fundraiser once again drew large crowds, with participants gathering early to take part before heading home to celebrate the day with family and friends.
James Fox-Golding, Events and Challenges Manager for St Elizabeth Hospice, said turnout was strong and on track to rival last year’s event.
“Last year we had 660,” he said, adding that numbers had been building steadily in the run-up to Christmas.
The event, which takes place on Christmas Day rather than Boxing Day, is known for its lively atmosphere and creative costumes, with many participants embracing fancy dress alongside festive hats and accessories.
“It’s such a quick event because obviously Christmas Day morning everyone’s got to get home for their turkey and presents,” James said. “But the atmosphere is just electric... it's so heart-warming to see it happen. I love it. ”
He said participants arrived early, with hot drinks and food available, and many people brought picnics to enjoy on the beach before the dip.
“People rock up, we’ve got a coffee vendor and bacon rolls. People bring picnics down, hot toddies,” he said. “Everyone’s chatting away, people getting ready, getting their costumes on.”
Due to the growing popularity of the dip, organisers now spread participants across two beaches to ensure safety.
“We have so many people now, we actually do it over two beaches,” James explained. “You see a mass load of people, all ready to go.”
He praised the role of marshals, who helped ensure the event ran smoothly and safely.
“Just come down, listen to our marshals, they’ll make sure they’re safe, make sure everyone’s in the right place, and we’ll make sure it goes smoothly,” he said.
James added that Christmas Day offers a chance for people to let go and have fun while supporting a local cause.
“At Christmas, certainly that day, people can be as silly as they like in their fancy dress,” he said. “Come down, have some fun, raise some money for the Hospice.”
St Elizabeth Hospice provides care for people living with progressive and life-limiting illnesses across the region, and fundraisers like the Christmas Day Dip play a vital role in supporting its services.