Hopes for good weather as Sidmouth Boxing Day swim approaches
Flashback: hundreds join in a previous Boxing Day swim at Sidmouth. Picture: Tony Charnock - Credit: Archant
Organisers of Sidmouth’s Boxing Day Swim are hoping the weather will hold out as the countdown to the festive tradition continues.
Thousands of people have braved the swim since it first began in 1985 and many more are expected to take to the water again on December 26, watched by spectators.
Oliver Salter and other members of the Sidmouth Regatta committee will make a decision on whether the event will take place the morning of the event, taking the weather forecast and tides into consideration.
Mr Salter said, this year, participants are being asked to sign a disclaimer and stressed that the swim is weather-dependent.
He told the Herald: “Should the event go ahead, the Sidmouth Regatta committee, in conjunction with the Sidmouth Branch RNLI, are hoping for a sunny day, but know a few foolish souls will not be put off even if the weather is cold.
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“If the event is cancelled, please respect the decision and do not enter the water – the decision is made for everyone’s safety.”
Sidmouth Lifeboat and Sidmouth Surf Life Saving Club will provide on-the-water cover for the duration of the swim.
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Children taking part must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and under-12s are asked not to enter the water.
Participants can sign in on the day in front of Sidmouth Sailing and Sea Angling Club from 10.30am to show off their fancy dress.
The swim is scheduled for approximately 11am.
The Sidmouth branch of the RNLI will be collecting on the day and donations will also be made to Sidmouth Lifeboat, the surf lifesaving club and St John Ambulance.
Tea and coffee will be available in the sailing club before and after the swim.
