Over 200 people take the plunge for Alnmouth New Year dip

Dippers of all ages started the new year off with a bang as they raced towards the North Sea on Wednesday, January 1

Now in its seventh year, the event which began with just six people, has become a staple of the Northumberland community’s holiday calendar.

This year is believed to be the biggest yet, as more than 200 people took part beating 2018’s record of 150.

Participants went above and beyond with their fancy dress outfits too, with several Santas spotted in the sea and members of the Alnwick Round Table showing up as the Knights of the Round Table.

However, it was a flamingo and two characters from the TV show Poldark who ended up taking the crown for best costume.

“The event was a tremendous success. We had really good weather and I’m once again really impressed with the numbers that turned up and the amount of people in fancy dress,” said organiser Nick Matlock.

“Over 200 people went into the water, so it’s another year where it has grown in size.”

However, Nick, who started the event in 2013 when he took over Puffin Stores and Post Office, says it may be time for him to step down and for the dip to become an official charity event.

“There was only six of us seven years ago and then we got up to 35. I never thought it would get to the size it is now, never in my wildest dreams. My eyes are further out on stalks every year,” he said.

“While I may well continue to take part, I feel it could be better organised by people with more experience.

“If there are any charities who would be interested in talking to me about taking the event on, I’m open to any suggestions as to how we might make things better.”

The dip usually raises around £1,000 for charity, although it is not an official event. This year donations were collected for Hospice Care Northumberland and the RNLI.

Nick also thanked Alnmouth Golf Club who suspended play while the event took place.