Dippy new year: Revellers brave icy waters for seaside fund-raiser

Revellers celebrate the arrival of 2010 in traditional style by taking part in the annual New Year's Day dip at Scarborough's South Bay.

It was the 18th year that festive fund-raisers had blown away the cobwebs by diving into the freezing waves off Sandside. Dippers were out in force at Scarborough Rowing Club before taking the plunge shortly after noon near the Lifeboat House, with the cash raised going to local good causes.

Scarborough Mayor Bill Chatt, a former dipper, judged a fancy dress competition before the event.

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The dip regularly attracts about 40 people in fancy dress and was one of a number of traditional events observed by Scarborough to welcome in the New Year.

Organiser Alan Deacon, of Scarborough Lions, said it was a great event where the sun “always seemed to shine”.

Other festive customs included the East and West Ayton charity tug of war, which takes place across the River Derwent, and Scarborough Spa Orchestra’s opening concert of the year. This year’s programme included Strauss, Franz Lehar, and other composers of light classical music.

Hardy swimmers: Page 8. Picture: Tony Bartholomew.

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