Cancer Focus NI’s family support coordinator Rachel Smith is calling on local people to make a fresh start to 2018 by taking an icy dip in the sea at Crawfordsburn Beach on New Year’s Day.

The dip will begin at 11am and will help raise much-needed cash for our charity’s Family Support Service.

Rachel has taken part in the annual event since it began in 2015 and says it’s a fantastic opportunity to use her hobby to raise much-needed funds.

She’s previously taken part in a charity 10k swim in New York’s Hudson for Cancer Focus NI, and she says she can’t wait to be a part of this year’s dip.

“The cash you raise will go towards our Family Support Service, which gives essential help to children when their mum, dad or grandparent has cancer.

“Family Support is one of our most used services and we can only provide this vital care thanks to your help, so please do consider joining us on New Year’s Day for a fun-filled dip.”

Jillian Wallace, Challenge Events Officer for Cancer Focus NI, said: “We’re encouraging everyone to do something worthwhile this New Year’s Day, so why not take the plunge and shake off all that Christmas over-indulgence?

“It’ll be freezing but we guarantee you’ll have a great time with all the other people taking part – and, most importantly, you’ll be helping raise money for a fantastic cause.

Everyone taking part will receive a Cancer Focus NI t-shirt when they register and a warm drink will be waiting for you after your swim. There will also be prizes for the best fancy dress outfit.

It is only £10 to register and the charity is asking everyone to try and raise as much in sponsorship as they can.

For more information or to sign up email challenge@cancerfocusni.org or give Cancer Focus NI a call on 028 9068 0788.

Sign up online here. You can also register on the day from 10.30am on Crawfordsburn Beach.

Photos courtesy of Phil McKinney