New Year to start with a splash in Broadstairs

Over 100 brave swimmers will be starting the New Year with a splash as they plunge into the sea at Broadstairs on January 1, continuing the local tradition of raising funds for Children’s Liver Disease Foundation (CLDF).

The annual event is organised by Jill and Kenny Connell, who ran the town’s Neptune Hall for 17 years. Now that they are no longer running the pub, they are inviting swimmers to meet at the Dolphin Inn instead.

“We’re delighted that our friends at The Dolphin are helping us to continue the tradition,” says Jill.  “We’re asking people to meet there at 11.45 ready to run into the sea at 12pm. Everyone is then invited back to The Dolphin for some warming curry and live music.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming plenty of swimmers and spectators. It’s a great way to start the New Year so come on down to the beach and help us raise money for a fantastic cause.”

Alison Taylor, Chief Executive of CLDF added: “We are the only UK charity dedicated to fighting all forms of childhood liver disease and we rely on voluntary donations. The Broadstairs New Year’s Day dip is a wonderful tradition which has raised over £58,000 over the years – a tremendous amount for a small charity like ours.  Good luck to everyone who is braving the chilly waters for us that day!”

The New Year’s Day dip is open to anyone. Participants can either get sponsorship in advance (available from The Dolphin) or simply come along on the day and enter by making a £10 donation to CLDF. For further information contact Kenny Connell on 0750 5094631.