News

The Golden anniversary of the Bridlington sea dip takes place on Christmas Day and is being held in memory of Founder Warwick Connelly. Warwick, who was a well know figure in Bridlington, started off the tradition of the North Sea dip in the mid sixties. He, and a group of Old Town friends, decided to do something different to raise a few pounds for charity. From then onwards grew a great tradition that has attracted attention worldwide. Over the years participants have dressed as snowmen, Father Christmas and pirates. Now, fifty years later, Warwick's widow, Janet, has handed over the running of the event to Blast Fitness. Every year the popularity of the event has grown and grown, and raised tens of thousands of pounds over the years. Janet said: “ I can’t believe the event as reached its fiftieth year. We all so glad that Steve Tighe and Blast Fitness have taken over the organisation of the event . They will do a great job, continuing to raise money for local charities.” We are all so very touched that the dip is being done in Warwicks memory. Myself and members of my family will proudly run into the sea on this fantastic anniversary.” This year sea dippers are asked to assemble on the promenade on North Marine Drive near to The Sands cafe at 9.45. The intrepid swimmers will then gather together for a group photograph and safety briefing then dash down into the water for a cooling swim at 10 am. Tradition says that to have properly qualified for the title of Bridlington Christmas Day Sea Dipper, participants must have submerged their entire body and head under water. In 2008 swimmer Craig Akid made Christmas extra special as he proposed to his girlfriend Laura Stephenson to cheers and applause from fellow dippers. Steve Tighe, who runs Blast Fitness on Brett Street, said "We must say a huge thank you to Janet Connelly for entrusting us at Blast to keep it going for many years to come" "Please come along and join us by helping raise money for a fabulous chosen charity for the year, our very own local heroes. “ "The Bridlington branch of the R.N.L.I do an amazing selfless job, regularly risking their own lives to help our loved ones" commented Steve. Spectators are welcome and collectors will be present to take donations from anyone willing to spare some money for the RNLI. Sponsor forms are available at Blast Fitness to those who want to raise some money by taking part in the dip.