Last chance to enter Sunderland's Boxing Day Dip

Hundreds of brave souls take the plunge each year to raise money for a vast range of charities, organisations and other good causes across Wearside and further afield.

So far 800 dippers have signed up for this year’s event - but the deadline for registration expires next Monday and organisers Sunderland Lions Club are urging anyone who wants to take part not to miss out.

“The closing date for entry is December 12, so anyone who wants to register needs to get a move on,” said Lions Club spokesman Anne Fielding.

“It will be the 42nd dip and we are hoping for a record turn-out.”

The club is also hoping to see plenty of support fro this year’s dippers from the public of Sunderland.

Thousands of people regularly line the beach and the promenade at Seaburn to cheer on those taking part.

“We want to encourage the people of Sunderland to come down to the seafront and encourage these wonderful, brave people who are raising money for several good causes,” said Anne.

The Lions Club takes 20% of sponsorship raised from the annual event, which it uses to fund its own good causes such as the annual Christmas Wish campaign - almost £11,000 has been distributed across the city and further afield through Lions International - then passes on the remainder to dippers’ chosen charities.

Last year’s event saw some 750 dippers brave the waves, raising around £44,000.

All dippers must be registered and a registration form can be found on the Lions Club website at www.sunderlandlionsuk.org. Dippers can also call 0191 522 5305.

All the rules in the Dip booklet should be read and carefully followed.

Registration closes on Monday, December 12 to allow time for the organisation of the event and compliance with Health and Safety regulations.