The Southern Dippers have raised a total of £13,217.57 for The Children’s Centre following this year’s New Year’s Day sea dips across the south of the island.
The series of events, sponsored by Zurich Isle of Man, saw hundreds take to the water at Chapel Beach, the Inner Harbour in Port St Mary, Gansey, and Port Erin, where the final dip also included a fancy dress competition.
This year marked the 25th anniversary of the popular community tradition.
Southern Dippers
His Excellency Sir John Lorimer and Lady Lorimer were among those who braved the icy conditions, with safety overseen by Southern Dippers volunteers, RNLI crews, and Port Erin Coastguard.
Zurich funded the event and produced participant t‑shirts, with all proceeds going to The Children’s Centre. The amount raised was then matched by the Z Zurich Foundation, contributing to the final total of £13,217.57 alongside donations from sponsors, supporters and dippers.
Event organiser Lenny Conroy, of Triskel Promotions, said Zurich’s involvement helped the event grow while keeping its community focus.
Zurich’s Stephanie Hatton said the company was proud to support the milestone year, adding that she and Chief Underwriting Officer Chris Weldon completed all four dips on the day.
