The event attracted dare-devils not only from in and around Newquay but further afield too, like mum and daughter, Hilary and Harriet Brown, who had travelled from Leicester to take part.

Some of the dippers chose to wear fancy dress for the event and the crowd witnessed two Ali Babas, a punk rocker, a range of Christmas and pink-themed participants, and more traditionally clad swimmers, all entering the water at 12 noon. They paddled, dipped and swum until the warmth of a fluffy towel drew them back to the beach. The crowd clapped and cheered as the last participant came out of the water having bravely done a few laps of the harbour. It was brilliant to see that the event had attracted so many participants, with ages ranging from 9-70 years, and a great - and supportive - crowd of onlookers.

It is hoped the total raised for this CLIC Sargent Newquay New Year event will be in the region of £1,500. The money will go towards supporting children who are having treatment for cancer or leukaemia and their families. Many dippers had been sponsored by family and friends – one lady had raised an amazing £270. Onlookers were most generous with their donations, too.

The organiser, Hannah Eustice, thanked the many helpers who enable the event to go ahead so swimmingly; Newquay Harbour and the staff at the Rowing  Club for use of their facilities; the lifeguard, James, and Newquay Mayor, Andy Hannan and his wife, Barbara, who counted the clock down at the start of the event and to all who support this inaugural fun event.

Plans are Watch a video of this year's Dip for CLIC event and check out more photos. already underway for the New Year's Day Dip for CLIC 2013, Put this date in your diary and be bold, be brave, be benevolent and challenge yourself for a very worthy cause. As the old saying goes, you don't have to be mad to take part in this event, but it certainly helps.

One participant, who had never done anything as crazy as wading through water on a winter's day said, “It was a great event to be part of. Like most 'firsts' the anticipation was much worst than the reality. Yes, the water was fffffffreezing but it was such an exhilarating challenge I can't wait for next year. Everyone should take part in something like this at least once in their lives. Perhaps Cornwall CLIC Sargent can arrange another extreme challenge - like fire-walking!!!”.

For more information about Cornwall CLIC Sargent fundraising in Newquay please contact Hannah Eustice on 01637 831184 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Andy Cole on 07971 55089 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .