As 2025 approaches, it’s time to start the new year with a splash! We are thrilled to announce the return of the much-loved New Year's Day Dip, now entering its fourth year. Join us for an exhilarating seaside plunge, filled with fun, community spirit, and the opportunity to support a meaningful cause.
Taking place on the well-known Minehead Beach, this growing tradition continues to attract participants eager to brave the refreshing waters of the Atlantic. The New Year's Day Dip has become a signature event for those looking to shake off the holiday cobwebs, embrace the new year, and make memories that last a lifetime.
We'ree encouraging participants to dress up in their favourite costumes! Whether you're sporting a silly outfit or a whimsical creation, let your imagination run wild and make your sea plunge as memorable as possible—all in the name of a great cause.
The event kicks off at 08.30am on January 1, giving you the perfect start to 2025 with the infamous dash to be the first in at 09.30. Each participant will receive a hot drink to enjoy post-dip, plus if you raise £45 or more for us, you’ll be given an exclusive bobble hat to keep cozy.
While the New Year's Day Dip is all about coming together for a great time, it’s also about making a difference. Your ticket price covers the cost of the event, but any additional sponsorship raised will help provide vital care to patients and families across the community when they need it most.
This year, we're aiming to raise £10,000. For every 3 people that raise the suggested £45 sponsorship, this could fund the visit of a community nurse to someone like Bob, husband and stepfather to Suzanne and Holly. Bob passed away after a 14-month battle with bowel cancer that had spread to his liver. While the initial prognosis had given Bob only six months, palliative chemotherapy, other treatments and the tireless care of our Community Nursing team allowed him to live another eight months.
Suzanne and Holly are once again taking part in our New Year’s Day Dip to honour Bob’s memory and to give back to the hospice that provided such invaluable care during his final months. Suzanne reflects on the compassionate support they received: “At the worst time in our lives, the most amazing people came in to support us, knowing exactly what we would need. It’s not just a job for them; it’s a calling.”
Participating in the dip has become a way for them to heal and celebrate life amidst their grief. Holly adds, “There were hundreds of people on the beach, all happy, and you just know that probably everyone there has lost someone and has a connection with St Margaret’s. It was fun, and it brought us out of that sadness.” Both mother and daughter hope their involvement will inspire others to join in and help raise vital funds for the hospice, ensuring its services can continue to support families like theirs. Holly is especially eager, saying, “How else is St Margaret’s going to raise money if we’re not getting involved?”
Don’t miss out on the chance to dive into 2025 with an unforgettable experience! Tickets are just £7, and you can book online now to be part of the fourth annual New Year's Day Dip and start your year with a splash!