26th Nov 2024

Thousands set to brave the waves for the Skipton Boxing Day Dip

Skipton International is thrilled to announce its continued partnership with the Guernsey Cheshire Home as the proud sponsor of this year’s annual Boxing Day Dip, a beloved Guernsey tradition.

Over the years, this Boxing Day spectacle has drawn an enthusiastic crowd of swimmers and spectators alike, with last year seeing over 3,000 participants – many dressed in festive attire – embracing the island’s largest charitable dip. All funds raised go directly to the Guernsey Cheshire Home, which provides essential care and opportunity for people with serious physical disabilities. With no direct States funding or support from the Leonard Cheshire Home group, the Home depends solely on donations to cover its annual costs of around £1.4 million.

This year, the event promises another exciting morning as swimmers dash into the chilly waters, buoyed by the support of the community. Volunteers will be on-hand with donation buckets and credit card machines for donations by cash or card. The Guernsey Cheshire Home will also be offering a Boxing Day hat for sale, with all proceeds supporting the Home. The event’s target is for each swimmer to donate at least £5 – a small contribution that, collectively, can make a significant impact.

After the dip, which starts at 10:30am, participants can warm up with complimentary mince pies and mulled wine.

Jim Coupe, Chief Executive Officer at Skipton International, expressed the bank’s commitment to supporting Guernsey’s vital causes, which among many other events across the Bailiwick, include the renowned Skipton Swimarathon:

“As a community-focused bank, Skipton International is proud to sponsor events like the Boxing Day Dip, which make a real difference locally. The work done by the Guernsey Cheshire Home is truly inspiring, and I look forward to joining everyone on the beach this Boxing Day for a great cause.”

Rob Shepherd, Chairman of the Guernsey Cheshire Home, spoke about the impact of the dip: “Seeing the community come together in such large numbers year after year is incredibly moving. This is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and it not only supports residents but helps us reach out to others needing respite care in the community. We are so grateful to Skipton International for their ongoing support.”

You can also support The Guernsey Cheshire Home by pre-purchasing the 2024 Boxing Day Dip beanie hat online at https://guernseycheshirehome.org/uts/product/beanie or at Market Square on Saturday 7^th and Thursday 12^th December.