Cumbrians and festive holidaymakers are being invited to take a dip for charity to welcome in 2024.

The Lake District Calvert Trust is hosting its second New Year’s Day dip to raise money for the charity, whose residential breaks help people with a range of disabilities experience all the beauty that the Lake District has to offer in a safe and supportive way.

Last year saw 200 eager dippers take to the chilly waters – this year, the charity are hoping to welcome a whopping 500! 

The dip is taking place at Derwentwater at 11am on January 1, 2024.  Places are limited to 500 and can be reserved in advance via this link.

 Yvonne Booth, fundraising officer for the Lake District Calvert Trust, said: 

"Our New Year’s Day Dip has become a firm fixture in the fundraising calendar and promises to, once again, be a great community event to start the year!

"The fun will start at 11am and fancy dress is most definitely encouraged!  Everyone taking part will also be treated to a hot drink and cake courtesy of Alpkit of Keswick and Carvetti Coffee, supported by The Keswick Lions."

Lake District Calvert Trust instructors and staff will be on hand at Derwentwater to make sure that all dippers are kept safe.  Wetsuits are recommended and safety boats will also be on hand. 

The New Year’s Day dip is free to take part in but swimmers are encouraged to make a minimum donation of £5 to help ensure that children and adults with disabilities continue to benefit from the great outdoors thanks to the amazing work of the Lake District Calvert Trust.

Calvert's Christmas fundraiser brought in a phenomenal £33k thanks to some superb efforts from the public, and the charity is looking to get 2024 started with a bang with the New Year's Day dip.

This year, Calvert-branded bobble hats are available to pre-order for £12 when booking your place and can be collected on the day.

Yvonne concluded: "This event is all about bringing the community together, welcoming in 2024 and having great fun for charity."