Swimmers are being invited to take a festive dip for charity in the Lake District.
The Lake District Calvert Trust is hosting its third New Year’s Day dip in a row after last year’s successful event saw over 300 people take on a chilly Derwentwater.
This year, the charity are hoping to welcome 500 people to Derwentwater at 11am on January 1 2025.
Places are strictly limited to 500 to safety – so swimmers are asked to reserve their spot online in advance.
Julia Metcalf, fundraising officer for the trust, said: “Our New Year’s Day Dip has become a firm fixture in the fundraising calendar and promises to, once again, be a great community event to start the year!
“The fun will start at 11am and fancy dress is most definitely encouraged!
“Hot drinks and nibbles are courtesy of our charity partners, Booths Keswick while our Calvert catering staff will be laying their best warming soup. Donations most welcome – we do cash and contactless so no excuses!”
The New Year’s Day Dip is made possible ever year thanks to the generosity of the Keswick Launch Company who allow the Lakeland Charity use of the shoreline.
Lake District Calvert Trust instructors and staff will be on duty at Derwentwater to make sure that all dippers are kept safe. Wetsuits are recommended and safety boats will also be on hand.
The New Year’s Day Dip is free to take part in but swimmers are encouraged to make a voluntary minimum donation of £5 to help ensure that children and adults with disabilities continue to benefit from the great outdoors thanks to the Lake District Calvert Trust.
This year, limited edition Calvert-branded bobble hats are also available to pre-order when booking your place and can be collected on the day.
Julia added: “This event is all about bringing the community together, welcoming in 2025 and having great fun for charity.”
