Whitby Boxing Day dip takes on virtual ice bucket theme this year

Last year was saw the biggest-ever Boxing Day Dip with nearly 200 dippers taking part and hundreds of supporters to cheer them on.

But the Covid-19 pandemic means that this year , organisers Whitby and District Lions are going to try something different.

Spokesman Brian Harrison said: "We challenge everyone to take a virtual dip in an ice bucket style challenge while raising money for your chosen charity.

"We don’t mind how you do it – an ice bucket challenge, under the garden hose, in the kids’ paddling pool, the choice is yours, as long as you are using cold water, you get wet and you will have much more fun in fancy dress."

All you need to do is register for a sponsor form, which can collect one from The Whitby Pet Shop in Whitby or email [email protected] and we will email one to you.

People taking part in the Dece,ber 26 challenge can then have someone taking photos or filming a video which can be posted on to Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag

#whitbyboxingdaydip - or send it to us via email, to prove you completed your freezing challenge.

"Don’t forget this can only be done with members of your household or support bubble and please observe any Covid-19 restrictions in place in your area on Boxing Day," said Brian.

"Please also be safe when emerging yourself in cold water for an extended period of time and ensure someone will always be with you when you do the challenge.

"Please also note, that you undertake the challenge at your own risk."

All the sponsor money people raise can be donated to the charity of their choice.

Whitby Lions are not making money from this year’s dip, but if you wish to donate your fundraising to the club, they would be very grateful.

People will be responsible for collecting their pledges and then donating the money they raise to their chosen charity.

Click here for further details.

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