New Year’s Day dook to be ‘biggest event so far’

ORGANISERS of the New Year’s Day Dook in Broughty Ferry are calling on brave bathers to join them for what they hope will be the biggest event yet.

The tradition, which dates back to 1891, attracts around 3,000 spectators each year who watch hundreds of swimmers take to the sea on January 1.

Joyce McIntosh, of Ye Amphibious Ancients Bathing Association (YeAABA), said she was expecting a good turnout.

She said: “There’s no football on and the tide this year is very favourable.

“That’s why we have decided to do a bit more than usual — this is our biggest event yet.

“The Dook is our biggest fundraiser throughout the year.

“Up and down the coast there are dooks so we need to be ahead of the game.”

This year’s event is the largest one that YeAABA has organised.

Money raised will help the swimming club maintain its life jackets, safety ropes, boat hires and other expenses incurred while running championships throughout the year.

Proceedings kick off with registrations at 11am, followed by a selection of displays and attractions from Horne’s Carnival, the Boath Highland Dancers and the Discovery Twirlers.

Special guests include Dundee’s own Oor Wullie and some Minions, who will provide entertainment and photo opportunities throughout the day.

The family event is open to all and fancy dress is encouraged, as there will be prizes for the best-dressed — although a blanket ban on mankinis is in place.

Joyce said: “Sometimes the water can be sub-zero — be prepared for a wee shock. It’s a wee challenge but it’s fun. I think it’s good as people do it for charity and it brings people together.

“When I did my first Dook in 1981 there were 13 of us. Now it’s hundreds and it benefits businesses in the Ferry — coffee shops in the Ferry will be open as they know this is on.”

Dooking in the Tay dates back to 1891, when villagers would bathe in the water every day except the Sabbath.

The event has never missed a year, but in 1989 sheets of ice had to be broken to allow dookers into the waters.

Individual entries cost £15 but teams of at least eight can enter for £10 a head. To sign up for the event, register online or download an entry form at yeaaba.org.uk/the-dook.