Newquay’s Thrilling Plunge for a Cause: Record-Breaking DIP for CLIC 2024!

In an exhilarating display of community support, Newquay residents and visitors came together to make a big splash on New Year’s Day 2024 at Newquay Harbour. The occasion? The tenth annual “DIP for CLIC” event, which witnessed a massive turnout of over 500 brave souls taking a chilly dip in the sea, all in the name of charity and all to raise funds for Young Lives vs Cancer.

The weather gods smiled upon the event, offering perfect conditions as participants gathered at Newquay Harbour to make their daring plunge. The sight was nothing short of spectacular, with a sea of well-wishers cheering on the fearless dippers who braved the icy waters.

Adding a delightful twist to the day, many dippers donned vibrant and creative fancy dress costumes and swimwear, turning the event into a colourful spectacle. A spokesperson for the Newquay Young Lives vs Cancer fundraising group expressed their excitement, stating, “It’s fantastic to witness such incredible support from our community. What better way to kickstart 2024? Some of our dedicated dippers have been part of this tradition since its inception, and it’s heartwarming to see old friends return year after year. Our Dippers hail not only from the Newquay area but also from across the country, making this event a must-do during their holiday visits.”

As the official countdown reached its climax, participants dashed into the water, where they paddled, dipped, and swam under the vigilant watch of Newquay Surf Life Saving Lifeguards. The cheering crowd, the largest ever, continued to applaud and cheer until the last dipper emerged from the chilly embrace of the sea.

The grand total raised for this Young Lives vs Cancer event, including entry fees, sponsorships, and generous donations, exceeded an impressive £4,500. These funds will be directly utilised to provide much-needed care and support to children undergoing treatment for cancer and their families.

Jos and Andy Cole, the event’s organisers, extended their heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated team of volunteers who ensured the event ran smoothly. They also acknowledged the support of numerous organisations and individuals, including Beaches & Cream Newquay WI, Newquay Harbour Mission, Newquay Surf Life Saving Club, Newquay Rowing Club, Newquay Harbour Master, Newquay RNLI, Starts Estate Agents, Bookers, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Bogdan Parvu at Blystra Signs, This is Newquay Cornwall, Radio Newquay, BBC Radio Cornwall, Peter Burnett, Genevieve Trickett for the drone filming and photos, and Newquay Lions. Without their invaluable contributions, the event’s success wouldn’t have been possible.

Mark your calendars, because the New Year’s Day Dip for CLIC 2025 is already in the works and promises to be bigger and better than ever. It’s a daring challenge for a wonderful cause, so don’t miss it!

About Young Lives vs Cancer When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their world, and their family’s world, can feel like it’s falling apart. Young Lives vs Cancer is the only charity in the UK with social workers dedicated to providing tailored psychosocial support to children and young people with cancer and their families. They stop at nothing to ensure these young lives get the right care and support at the right time. For more information, visit younglivesvscancer.org.uk.