HUNDREDS of residents braved the cold to enjoy an iconic Christmas tradition and raise money for a local cause in Bude.
On the morning of December 25, while many of us put on our Christmas jumpers, unwrap our gifts, and stuff our faces, there is a large population of the county who get into their swimsuits and packing their cars ahead of a cold dip into the sea.
Each year, thousands of residents flock to Cornwall’s beautiful beaches to take part in a Christmas Day swim.
One of the most popular and well known Christmas dips takes place on the North Cornwall coast in Bude. Each year, Crooklets beach welcomes the brave and the bold from Cornwall and beyond as they don their best Christmas hats and get more than just their toes wet.
The event has become incredibly popular and has attracted much attention, including that of photographers, who hope to capture the magical moment the masses run into the sea.
2024 was no different, as hundreds descended on the beach, wearing everything from trunks, and wetsuits to full festive costumes.
Though now an unofficial event, members from Bude Surf Lifesaving Club were in attendance for the morning to ensure everything remained safe.
While residents got chilly, staff at Crooklets Beach Cafe also worked voluntarily, providing much-needed warm drinks and food for swimmers.
During the morning, the cafe raised funds for the Surf Lifesaving Club, all amounting to more than £4,000.
A spokesperson from Crooklets Beach Café said: “On Christmas Day this year hundreds, if not thousands of people braved the cold and went into the sea at Crooklets Beach.
“We all think you’re mad, but you’re our kind of mad!
“Our staff worked voluntarily from early in the morning through to early afternoon, with stock and supplies being provided by many of our regular suppliers, to feed and water the crazy swimmers and spectators. All proceeds for the day will be donated to Bude SLSC, which is right next door to the cafe at Crooklets Beach, and as you all will know, do an amazing job.
“Thank you again to everyone that came down to support Bude SLSC, and to all of the Crooklets Beach Cafe staff who worked so hard on the day.”