Hastings December Dip sees record sign-ups in support of RNLI volunteers
Hastings December Dip sees record sign-ups in support of RNLI volunteers
Lifeboats News Release
Hastings RNLI volunteer crew are inviting the community to join this year’s December Dip on Sunday, 14 December. A record 140 people have already signed up to plunge into the winter waters in support of the charity that saves lives at sea.
The festive fundraising event returns, following a hugely successful launch in 2024. The volunteer crew will host the event at Hastings Lifeboat Station on The Stade, bringing together supporters, families and sea-swimmers to raise vital funds for the RNLI’s lifesaving work. The December Dip participants are encouraged to wear bright festive clothing to add to the festive fun.
Volunteer crew will be serving hot drinks and snacks inside the boathouse, offering a warm welcome to both dippers and spectators. With sign-ups already surpassing last year’s total, the event is set to be one of the lifeboat station’s biggest community fundraisers of the year.
Sea temperatures are a bracing 11°C in December. Participants will take the plunge in organised waves from 10:30am, with members of the volunteer lifeboat crew leading the first dip.
Hastings RNLI Lifeboat Management Group Chair, Paul Freathy, said: ‘It’s fantastic to see so many people getting behind this year’s December Dip. Community support makes a real difference to our volunteer crew, who are on call 24/7 to save lives at sea. Every donation helps us train and equip our
volunteers to respond safely and effectively whenever the pager sounds. We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone on the day.’
There is still time for people to register or come along to cheer on the swimmers. Those wishing to take part can sign up online or on the morning of the event, with all funds raised helping Hastings RNLI continue to provide its 24/7 search and rescue service. Spectators are very welcome and are encouraged to gather along the beach to show their support.
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
