HARDY souls are once again gearing up to take a dip with a difference at Sidmouth’s annual Boxing Day Swim.

The December 26 event has seen its popularity soar – with a couple of dozen taking part a few years ago to more than 300 in 2011.

And organisers hope, if the weather is kind, bigger and bigger crowds will also congregate, all wrapped up warm to cheer on the participants.

The swim, which started in 1985, is used by many as a means of revival from the excesses of food and drink on Christmas Day, not just for the swimmers but for the many hundreds of spectators, who gather on the Esplanade.

Organisers, Sidmouth Regatta committee in conjunction with the Sidmouth Branch RNLI, are hoping for a sunny day, but know few will be put off if the weather is still as cold as it has been recently.

It is for this reason that all entrants are asked to sign a disclaimer to absolve the organising committee of responsibility should they decide conditions are not suitable.

“We are very aware these days of ‘health and safety’ and for that reason have asked for the co-operation of Sidmouth lifeboat to provide ‘on the water’ cover for the duration of the swim,” said a spokesperson for the event.

All entrants are asked to sign in and gather in front of Sidmouth Sailing Club from 10.30am to show off their fancy dress.

The swim is scheduled for around 11am.

There is no sponsorship for the swimmers but Sidmouth Branch RNLI will be on hand to collect donations to the national fund.

Tea and coffee will be available in the sailing club before and after the swim. The event is weather permitting and the organisers’ decision is final. They ask that all entrants be sensible and respect any decisions made.