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A sunrise sea dash marked the start of International Women’s Day in Sunderland.

More than 40 swimmers of all ages and genders gathered on the sand at Seaburn ready for a 6.38am swim to signal the beginning of the celebrations.

Funds and donations were collected for domestic abuse charity Wearside Women in Need (WWiN) with fancy dress outfits including suffragettes, punks and ball gowns pulled on for the event.

Swimmers gathered around a fire and shared cake and hot drinks to warm up after, with dozens of spectators also lending their support.

Early risers take part in a sunrise swim at Seaburn beach in Sunderland this morning (SUN), in support of International Women’s Day and organised by members of Roker’s Fausto Bathing Club, with sponsorship and donations collected for Wearside Women in Need.
Pics by: North News — Early risers take part in a sunrise swim at Seaburn beach in Sunderland this morning (SUN), in support of International Women’s Day and organised by members of Roker’s Fausto Bathing Club, with sponsorship and donations collected for Wearside Women in Need. Pics by: North News | Other 3rd Party

The dip was organised through the Fausto Bathing Club, based at Roker, by Lois Robinson and Karen Parry, and was one of around 60 swims around the country in a project pulled together by photographer Anna Deacon, and backed by the Outdoor Swimming Society.

Lois said: “It’s amazing and it’s just lovely to see the community coming together at such an early hour.

“Wearside Women in Need is life-changing and a refuge which helps women across the North East.

“People have given cash and I’ve got a car full of donations.

Organisers say they were delighted with the number of people who turned out for the swim. | JPIMedia

“We’ve held this for International Women’s Day, however it’s not just for women, and open water swimming is such a safe group of people.

“It has so many health benefits and is such an exceptional support network, it’s very inclusive.”

Karren added: “It’s just brilliant to see how many people have come down and to see their support.”

Among the swimmers was Charlotte Dowson, 23, from Sunderland, who dressed in a tiger onsie.

She said: “I did it because swimming gives you the feeling of safety and you get a complete buzz and it’s a community all in one.”

Becky Rogerson, director of WWiN said: “Our refuges are full, and our outreach services busier than ever.

“We received over 3,000 referrals in 2019 – mothers, sisters, daughters, friends and neighbours – and we need to work together to end this.

“Please stand with us to support this day and highlight the reality of women and children at risk of harm.

“Join us and stand up for the right to live free from domestic abuse – whether you swim, walk or shout – have a voice.'

Swimming for women: Sunrise dip on Sunderland beach marks International Women's Day