Sea swimmers braving the December chill have raised the incredible sum of £19k for Les Bourgs Hospice by taking part in the 12 Bays of Christmas challenge.
The annual event was inspired by an idea dreamt up by the Marley and Sealey families who are all keen sea swimmers and encourages people to take a dip in 12 festively themed named bays during the month.
Family groups, work teams (including Robus, Investec HFL and the Red Carnation Group), friends groups (including the Guernsey Otters, Chemical Seasters & Mermaid Fin Flappers) and even a sporting team by the Guernsey Raiders Ladies all got involved.
The second youngest participant was Riva-Mae Brouard at 7 years old who also raised the second highest amount of sponsorship of £1,240 which was a fantastic achievement. Hitting the milestone amount of over £1k meant that less enthusiastic swimmers in her family had to join her for some of the swims which added to the fun.
Peter Smith proved his very valued and continued dedication in supporting sea swimming challenges for the Hospice, raising a combined total of £3,663 for the Summer and Winter events. Peter also went the extra mile by adding to his challenge by including hikes or runs to his swims.
Liz Stonebridge, Fundraising Administrator said: “We know that Christmas is a busy time of year and brings more challenging sea swimming conditions so we are grateful to everyone who took part or sponsored someone. My favourite part was the launch at the bathing pools where there was a real buzz of excitement. It was great to hear the chatter of conversation and lots of laughter. It is always a bonus to know that people are having fun while raising money for such an important local charity.”
Winner of the photo competition for the image that best captured the spirit of the event went to the Mental Tentacles (pictured) for the third year in a row with Santa making a splash at their pool party. Second place was a human Christmas tree by the Chemical Seasters and third place a cheeky selfie with the Christmas Tree at the Bathing Pools by Marina Burr.
