Daring dippers take the plunge raising vital funds for Sue Ryder

Cheltenham

163 fearless swimmers dipped into the chilly waters of Sandford Parks Lido in Cheltenham at the weekend (1 December) for a festive charity challenge in support of palliative and bereavement support charity, Sue Ryder.

The Sue Ryder Big Dip Cheltenham, now in its third year, saw participants enter in waves to brave the freezing eight-degree pool. Those involved — including staff from Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice — have raised nearly £25,000 so far, with more donations expected to ‘drip’ in. These funds will help the charity continue to deliver its vital support services.

Helen Hopkins was one of the swimmers who took the plunge. This was the third time Helen had taken part in the dip in honour of her husband, Dan, who was cared for at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice in the final days of his life before he died in July 2018.

Helen was cheered on by her mum and son, George. She said: “It was such a lovely, fun and festive event. Everyone seemed happy and in good spirits – it was wonderful to be there with lots of other people all supporting for the same cause. I am so glad I got to take part again, and it was cold, but it’s been colder,” Helen joked. “As I have always said it’s a small amount of pain to help people who are going through a lot more pain than me. Look forward to the next one!” Helen added.

After braving the chilly waters, swimmers had the chance to warm up with some hot drinks. There was also uplifting sounds of the Musicality Community Choir and i-Sing spreading Christmas cheer and ensuring that everyone was in the festive spirit.

Jemma Luker, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, said: “A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for this fantastic event. It was such a fun and festive day, and you could really feel the sense of community coming together to support Sue Ryder. We’re also incredibly grateful to Sandford Parks Lido for generously opening their pool for us again this year, and to our two choirs for helping spread some festive cheer.”

Jemma continued, “The money raised will help us ensure that we can continue to be there when it matters because no one should have to face death or grief alone.”

To find out more about Sue Ryder visit sueryder.org or contact the fundraising team at 01242 246 285 or email leckhampton.fundraising@sueryder.org.

 

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