The RNLI has sent its thanks to all those who showed its support to the Boxing Day dip at Newbiggin.The RNLI has sent its thanks to all those who showed its support to the Boxing Day dip at Newbiggin.
The RNLI has sent its thanks to all those who showed its support to the Boxing Day dip at Newbiggin.

14 Photos show Boxing Day dippers making a dash into the Northumberland sea

Two hundred hardy souls made the brave sprint into the sea as they joined in the Boxing Day traditional dip at Newbiggin.

More than 1,000 spectators looked on as this year’s dipper-count exceeded the 2018 event, with the annual celebration a favourite in the county’s calendar after it was set up in the 1980s by Ashington Lions.

Many wore fancy dress outfits for the 11am splash, which was organised by Newbiggin RNLI Lifeboat Station.

It will benefit from a windfall of more than £1,330 in donations from the session, with some of the funds coming to it through sponsorship, with the ladies’ fundraising team supporting it by offering refreshments from the lifeboat station.

Its volunteers were on the beach to offer support, along with Coastguard teams from the town and Blyth helped marshal and control the crowd, while the RNLI crew’s own boat and another from Blyth was out at sea to provide cover from the water.

Richard Marton, a member of the RNLI volunteer team, said the dippers had faced poor weather, including strong winds and rough seas.

He added: “Apart from money raised for the RNLI, a multitude of other charities were represented at the event and they will benefit from considerable support also.

“On behalf of Newbiggin Lifeboat Station can I pass on my thanks for everyone who made this event such a success and we look forward to welcoming you again next year.”

It will benefit from a windfall of more than £1,330 in donations from the session, with some of the funds coming to it through sponsorship, with the ladies’ fundraising team supporting it by offering refreshments from the lifeboat station.