SWIMMERS will brave cold waters again next month to raise money for charity.
The 12 Bays of Christmas challenge takes place between Sunday 1 and Tuesday 31 December, with participants also invited to swim in festive fancy dress.
The annual event raises funds for joint organisers Jersey Hospice Care and the National Trust for Jersey.
As in previous years, the 12 bays have festive-themed names, including “Bauble’y Bay” (Bouley Bay) and “La Rocque-ing Around the Christmas Tree” (La Rocque).
Organisers have issued a reminder that only those who are medically fit should take part. Information will also be provided about how to stay safe during and after a cold-water swim.
The challenge follows the 30 Bays in 30 Days sea swimming event, which encourages Islanders of all ages to swim a minimum of 30 strokes in 30 different bays in July.
The winter edition has no target time, distance or number of strokes for swimmers, as the emphasis is for people to take part within their limits.
Jersey Hospice Care community engagement officer Marina Brockbank said: “We know many Islanders swim all year round and feel the positive effects from the health and wellbeing benefits that cold-water swimming brings. This is a chance to feel better, have some festive fun and help raise the vital funds that we need to keep our services running.”
The National Trust for Jersey’s marketing and events manager, Donna Le Marrec, added: “We’ve changed some of the bays for this year’s challenge to encourage participants to explore some of the coastline that they may not be so familiar with. It’s all about having fun, getting out in the fresh air, challenging yourself and enjoying Jersey’s beautiful beaches – even in winter.”
This year’s event is supported by financial services provider CSC. CSC Jersey managing director Nicola Giraud said: “Both Jersey Hospice Care and the National Trust for Jersey are deeply rooted in our community and we take pride in supporting them, as well as having some festive fun along the way.”
To register visit: race-nation.co.uk/register/jhcnt/12-bays-of-christmas-2024
