New Year dip is back in Bognor

The town's Lions Club has brought back the January 1 fun occasion after a year's absence in response to requests.

Lions press officer Richard Johns said: "We are delighted that there has been sufficient support this year to enable us to re-stage the dip. We hope this will continue in future years.

"We might be in a recession but the need for some light-hearted fun is even more important."

One change from previous years will see the sprint into the waves take place at 11am after a fancy dress parade, rather than the previous time of 10.30am, because of the tide times.

The venue will again be the Bognor Regis Yacht Club in Victoria Road South and The Esplanade which has staged the occasion.

Last January would have been the 35th dip but a lack of interest caused it to be scrapped for the second time running. An unofficial event with five individuals had kept the event going as 2007 began.

Mr Johns said he hoped the dip's return would prove a success with entrants and watchers alike."The extra half hour means there is no excuse for not entering after a night out.

"Spectators are welcome to encourage the dippers not to back out. It's surprising what an audience can do for encouragement," he added.

Safety will be handled by Adur Junior Divers and St John Ambulance members.

Anyone wishing to take part on behalf of a local club or charity should contact Mr Johns on 01243 262240 for a sponsor form.

What do you think? Click here to send a letter or leave a comment below.

Click here to go back to Chichester news

Click here to go back to Bognor Regis news

Click here to go back to Midhurst and Petworth news

To tell us where in the world you are reading this story click on the link below to add yourself to our readers' map.

MAP