Deeply dippy for a Boxing Day swim

Hundreds more, many with dogs, stood at the shoreline waiting for their loved ones to get out of the water.

Lots of festive-themed hats bobbed in the 12C waters, with some swimmers leaving the water immediately and the rest staying in for a longer dip.

Rhona Humphreys, chairwoman of the Guernsey Cheshire Home support group, said she was continually impressed with the turnout year-on-year.

‘It’s our biggest annual fundraiser and great to see the community continuing to support us,’ she said.

‘It’s a really important charity that helps people not just in the home but beyond that as well.

‘It brings tears to my eyes each year to see the support for this phenomenal event,’

The charity had set up its gazebo to sell branded hats and take donations, with each hat costing £10. About 400 were sold, alongside sponsorship and donations.

The morning started with a little cloud cover, but the sun came out just in time for the swimmers as they lined up.

The air-horn was sounded at 10.30am, followed by a sea of whoops and cheers as the swimmers entered the cold water.

For many it was their first Boxing Day swim, others who had been doing it for years felt just a little cold.

‘It’s my first time, but I’m not nervous,’ said Samantha Vaudin.

David Fitch welcomed the weather on the morning, with the sun breaking through. It was his second time taking part in the swim, with his wife Ruth taking part for the first time.

‘I’m feeling brave at the moment, but we’ll see how I feel when I do get in,’ she said.

Ian Butt was stood on the rocks at the edge of the beach waiting for his wife and two daughters with dog Maya.

‘They’ve done this for a few years now,’ he said.

Cobo was a hub of activity from the Rockmount to Mim’s Kiosk, where long queues formed for everything from ice cream to hot sandwiches. As always, parking was at a premium.

St John Ambulance and the Coastguard were in attendance for the safety and assurance of the public.

The amount raised is yet to be announced, but all proceeds go towards the home, with the support of event sponsors Skipton International.