The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Brave women take plunge to raise funds
Wild swimming in some of Fife’s most beautiful sea pools surged in popularity over the summer.
But only the hardiest of swimmers continue to brave the chilly Firth of Forth during a Scottish winter.
Yet a group of East Neuk women threw caution to the wind every morning during November to swim lengths of Cellardyke tidal pool.
And not only was it an exhilarating experience, but they raised £10,500 for Cancer Research UK’S Cold Water Challenge in the process.
Linda Mcbride was one of eight Cellardyke women taking part in the Cold Water Challenge.
All the women were keen swimmers aged between their early-30s and mid60s and had witnessed the effect of cancer on loved ones.
Linda said: “The cold water isn’t as bad as people think.
“November was kind to us and the coldest it got was five degrees.
“It was usually between five and nine degrees.
“There were days when I felt it was better in the water than out, to be honest.”
She added: “We went every day in November, rain or shine, and we’ve become addicted. You wouldn’t believe the laughs we had.”
The camaraderie combined with the cold water created a buzz that improved everyone’s mental wellbeing.
“When it’s really cold you get pins and needles but once you push past that, it’s like an adrenaline rush,” Linda said.
Cancer Research UK’S Cold Water Challenge didn’t require everyone to swim in the sea – a 30 second cold shower each day would have been enough. But that didn’t appeal to Linda, who said: “Personally, I couldn’t think of anything worse than standing under a cold shower.”
They met at 7am each day and swam at least four lengths together.
The ladies were also well prepared for the shock of getting out of the pool. All their towels were wrapped in hot water bottles and dry robes and fleecy hoodies were on hand. And they’ve had such a great time they plan to keep swimming throughout the winter.
The women promoted their venture on Facebook and were delighted when donations began pouring in. However, the social media posts also raised awareness of the ongoing work to restore the old pool.
Known locally as The Bathie, it had lain unattended for 40 years until a group of locals stepped up in June.
Their efforts were given a £40,500 boost three months later thanks to a grant from a community group and the work will begin in earnest in the new year.
It will start with a structural survey and work to improve access, including a new ramp.