St Margaret’s Hospice Care is set to host its fourth New Year's Day Dip, promising fun, community spirit, and a chance to support a worthy cause.

The event, which has become a staple for those wanting to start the year with a splash, will take place on Minehead Beach.

The New Year's Day Dip draws participants eager to brave the Atlantic's refreshing waters.

It is a symbol of new beginnings and a chance to shake off holiday lethargy.

St Margaret’s encourages dippers to add a splash of fun to their plunge by dressing up in their favourite costumes, whether silly or whimsical.

The event kicks off at 8.30am on January 1, with the first dip scheduled for 9.30am.

Participants will receive a hot drink to enjoy post-dip, and those who raise £45 or more for St Margaret’s will receive an exclusive bobble hat to keep warm.

The New Year's Day Dip is not just about fun; it is also about making a difference.

While the ticket price covers the event cost, any additional sponsorship goes directly to supporting St Margaret’s Hospice Care.

The funds raised provide crucial care to patients and their families across the community.

This year, the aim is to raise £10,000.

For every three people who raise the minimum sponsorship, the funds could pay for a community nurse visit to someone like Bob, who received care from St Margaret’s.

Bob, husband and stepfather to Suzanne and Holly, passed away after a 14-month struggle with bowel cancer that had spread to his liver.

The care from St Margaret’s community nursing team allowed him to live eight months beyond his initial prognosis.

Suzanne and Holly are once again taking part in the New Year’s Day Dip to honour Bob’s memory and to give back to the hospice that provided such invaluable care during his final months.

Suzanne said: "At the worst time in our lives, the most amazing people came in to support us, knowing exactly what we would need.

"It’s not just a job for them; it’s a calling."

Holly added: "There were hundreds of people on the beach, all happy, and you just know that probably everyone there has lost someone and has a connection with St Margaret’s.

"It was fun, and it brought us out of that sadness."

Both mother and daughter hope their participation will inspire others to join in and help raise funds for the hospice, ensuring its services can continue to support families like theirs.

Holly said: "How else is St Margaret’s going to raise money if we’re not getting involved?"

(Image: St Margaret's Hospice) St Margaret’s Hospice Care has been at the heart of Somerset’s community for almost 45 years, delivering high-quality, responsive, and compassionate care to patients facing a life-limiting illness and their families.

In 2023, with the help of around 800 volunteers, St Margaret’s supported 4,833 people across Somerset.

The majority were cared for in their homes by one of the five community nursing teams.

Their 24-hour Adviceline managed more than 31,000 calls, and their specialist In-Patient Unit in Taunton continues to provide around-the-clock complex symptom control.

A St Margaret's Hospice spokesperson explained: "Funds from sponsors and donations are vital to the success of St Margaret’s.

"One in three of our patients receive care thanks to gifts in wills.

"There are plenty of ways to support the hospice, from donations and shopping in one of our 31 charity shops through to taking part in one of our adrenaline-raising sky dives and abseils.

"However you help, we’re grateful you’re taking the time to care."

The funds raised by the New Year's Day Dip support families in a variety of ways.

For example, £5 could pay for a delicious and nutritionally balanced meal for one of their patients at their hospice In-Patient Unit.

£25 could pay for one hour of support through their 24/7 Adviceline, while £65 could pay for a patient to attend their day hospice in their unique Sunflower Centre for a day.

Don't miss out on the chance to dive into 2025 with an unforgettable experience.

Tickets are £7, and you can book online now at st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/new-years-day-charity-dip.

Be part of the fourth annual New Year's Day Dip and start your year with a splash.