AN ICE START TO THE YEAR
Brave swimmers splashed into the freezing North Sea for the annual New Year’s Day Dip on Scarborough’s South Beach. They were among hundreds who chose to take the plunge into icy waters across the Yorkshire region to welcome in 2018.
HUNDREDS OF brave swimmers across the region welcomed in the New Year with a bracing icy dip.
The chilly tradition appears to be growing in popularity, with organisers of many of the Yorkshire events reporting a rise in numbers taking part this year.
Nearly 60 swimmers took the plunge at the River Wharfe in Otley for the annual Joe Town Memorial Swim, watched by packed crowd.
Named after the life-saving swimming teacher who founded the event in the early 80s, this year’s festivities attracted swimmers aged from nine to 72 and from as far afield as Texas.
Joe’s daughter Helen Town, 49, one of the organisers, takes part herself every year.
She said: “It was very cold – it took your breath away when you first got in and the wind got you when you came out. It’s become a tradition and we just want to keep it going for as long as we can. It’s growing more and more each year.”
An estimated 150 people queued up to brave the icy water at the historic White Wells spa in Ilkley for the New Year’s Day dip. Owner Mark Hunnebell said: “It’s fun and a different way to celebrate New Year’s Day.”
In Scarborough, swimmers donned fancy dress to run into the North Sea for the New Year’s Dip at the town’s South Bay. Organised by the Scarborough Lions, this year’s dip featured outfits including a Christmas present, nun and mime artists.
A few miles away was the annual Ayton New Year Tug of War competition, reigniting the traditional rivalry between east and west in the village. After a close battle on the banks of the River Derwent, East Ayton emerged victorious.
It’s growing [in popularity] more and more each year. Helen Town, organiser of the Joe Town Memorial Swim in Otley.