People Features

Speed is the best option

The Seaburn Boxing Day dip, organised by the Sunderland Lions Club, started in 1974 with just 40 people braving the waters.

For reasons that escape our understanding (we're cowards when it comes to the cold and the wet), the event has become more popular every year.

Brave!

In 2007 well over 1000 people signed up to have a go and 817 made it into the water, raising £58,710. In 2006 there were 861 and they raised £58,353 which was distributed between 75 different charities and organisations.

The dip starts at 11am, so at least you get a lie in before your exertions.

Spectators are welcome. We much prefer the idea of being a spectator, but make sure you get someone to sponsor you to watch.

Getting involved?

Dippers (over 12 years please) are encouraged to arrive from 9.45am to register their attendance and get changed into their costumes.

Batman and Robin leave the water

Did we not mention there are costumes? We suggest you choose wisely. A waterproof, insulated polar bear outfit would be our top choice.

Between 10.30am and 11am the fancy dress will be judged by the Mayor and Consort and the president of the Sunderland Lions Club and his partner.

At 11am sharp all the dippers will parade down to the sea to put their money where their mouths are and take the plunge into the North Sea.

To encourage and reward the brave there are many prizes up for grabs. These include best team, best individual, best pub team and best all female/male teams, among others.

Ready to take the plunge?

The trophies are given out at the presentation day in late March when the cheques are donated to the charities and organisations.

Send in your pictures!

If you are taking part in the dip, dressing up, taking the plunge for charity or just doing it for fun, or penance, let us know and send in your pictures:

See pictures of previous years' Boxing Day dips: