Dookers get to splash out this new year

Don’t rock up expecting a spur of the moment dip to start 2022. That’s the clear message from organisers of the Broughty Ferry Dook just days ahead of the event’s welcome return.

After a Covid-19 cancellation in 2021 – the first in its 130-year history – one of Scotland’s most famous Ne’er Day seaside spectacles is back.

It will take place at noon on January 1. But there will be no entries on the day.

And organisers say Saturday spectator numbers are being strictly limited to 500 to comply with the new coronavirus restrictions on outdoor gatherings.

Ye Amphibious Ancients Bathing Association (YEAABA) has staged the Ferry event every year since 1891.

It’s become the biggest of its kind in the country.

And until 2021 it had never missed a year.

The dook even went ahead in 1989 when the

Phibbies had to break the ice of the partially frozen River Tay for those brave enough to take the plunge.

YEABBA life president and dook organiser Joyce Mcintosh said the club is delighted it is going ahead.

But public safety will be paramount. She said: “We’ve gone to a huge amount of effort to make sure everything is right.

“So giving people space is the buzzword for this year.

“There is definitely no chance of rocking up on the day and taking part. People

used to wake up on New Year’s Day and if it was nice they would come down and join in. That’s not going to happen this year.

“We did the entries by post and all of the dookers have been sent out the information they need.

“We have just over 50, which is about a quarter of what we would normally have, but that’s fine.”

And the event is also moving from the harbour

slipway to the steps at the flood defences being built at Beach Crescent.

Joyce added: “The team at the Mclaughlin and Harvey flood defence office have worked so hard with us, I can’t praise them enough.”

“Spectators are limited to 500. So everyone entering the Beach Crescent space either at St Vincent Street or Gray Street will be given a ticket. Once that space

allowance is filled up, then that is it.

“There will also be no carnival and no changing facilities.

“Compared to previous years it will be very low key – but that’s the way it has to be given the circumstances.

“Giving people space is what we must do now and we are taking the government guidelines very seriously.”

PHIBBIES ARE BACK: The Broughty Ferry Dook will make its return on New Year’s Day.