Take The Plunge On New Years Eve

• Archive, What's on
• 14th November 2016
• Cumbria Guide

Take the Plunge

IF you’re feeling particularly bonkers as the New Year approaches, then this is the perfect challenge for you.

For the past 22 years Whitehaven harbour side has been filled with hundreds of people eager to watch a group of Cumbria’s bravest characters take to the low temperatures of Irish Sea. In recent years we have seen several Santa’s, the odd batman and a few Wizard of Oz type Tin Men together with a wide variety of other well-known wacky characters.

The event doesn’t only entertain the spectators, as the crazy participants shiver and shudder in the water to the amusement of everyone watching; it’s all for a very good cause. The whole event has been created by the Golden Sands Polar Bear Club, and insane people who want to take part can raise money for whatever charity they choose.

Andy Sloan has been a member of the organising committee for more than 10 years. Taking the plunge to raise funds for the RNLI lifeboat appeal, he said: “We are expecting around 50 or 60 people to take to the water all in fancy dress, but there will be up to 500 people watching on.

“It’s always a great event and raises funds for much needed causes. We’re hoping to have Jackie Chambers playing for us too following her performance at the Civic Hall on the 30^th.  Anyone wanting to get involved can just turn up on the day. “

The whole idea is to get people doing something crazy, as well as fun, to raise as much money as possible for charities that really need the help.

This year’s event will take place on the December 31 but the waters are going to be populated a little earlier than previous years because of the tide times.

All participants will meet at the Wellington Bistro at 9am and there will be a warm-up session at 9.45am followed by a march from the bandstand to the Golden Sands. There will be a safety briefing at 10:20 before swimmers take to the sea at 10.30.

So, if you think that you are brave (stupid) enough to take on the Cumbrian waters and raise money for a good cause of your choice, then check out the Facebook page: Golden Sands Polar Bear Club or contact Andy on 07920144407.