St Margaret's Hospice holds first-ever Minehead charity dip

Dozens of participants took part in the event at Minehead Beach to raise money for the Somerset hospice, which supports patients with a life-limiting illness and their families and carers. 

The dip was initially scheduled for New Year's Day but was postponed and rescheduled to March due to Covid.  

Participants' £12 entry fees included a St Margaret's Somerset Hospice bobble hat and a much-needed hot drink to warm them up after leaving the water.

Supporters were encouraged to be sponsored by their family and friends to raise as much money as possible for the charity.

Read more: Hospice teams up with Somerset sportswear brand to raise funds with activewear 

Ellie Weston, Amy Garland, and Hollie Cashmore of St Margaret's Hospice at Minehead Beach on Saturday. Picture: Steve Richardson

Ellie Weston, marketing and events officer at St Margaret’s Hospice Care, said: “It was such an amazing event, well done to all our supporters who braved the sea in aid of St Margaret’s at Minehead Beach.

“A huge well done to everyone who attended and raised valuable sponsorship that allows us to continue supporting patients with a life-limiting illness and their families across Somerset.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to Jewson, who sponsored the event, and to our fantastic volunteers for giving up their time.

“We can’t wait to see everyone again at our New Year’s Charity Dip.”

Gallery: St Margaret's Hospice charity dip at Minehead Beach

Theo Spreadbury, Emma Hooper, and Iris Hooper braved the Bristol Channel on Saturday to raise money for St Margaret's Hospice. Pictures: Steve Richardson

Rich and Jo Briar attended the charity's first-ever dip event.

Kate Allam and Ann Jordan wrapped up in warm clothing before entering the water.

Glenys Tonks and Elaine Barras don their new St Margaret's Hospice bobble hats in Minehead.

Gilles Irwin and Clem Woodward were among the charity's supporters enjoying the sunshine before braving the icy water.

Jackie Boyes shows her support for St Margaret's with Bethan, Kate, and Sophie Hansen.

Nigel Pilkington and Suzanne Field at the St Margaret's Hospice charity dip.

Brave supporters of the Somerset charity make their way towards the Bristol Channel.

Participants were grateful for their new St Margaret's Hospice headwear.

A charity swimmer waves at our photographer while swimming in the sea.

Colour-coordinated St Margaret's supporters in the sea at Minehead Beach.

The St Margaret's Hospice charity dip is scheduled to return on New Year's Day.

Participants received a free hot drink to warm them up after braving the chilly conditions.