AYRSHIRE residents are being urged to dust off the Christmas cobwebs by taking a dip in the sea in aid of one of the area’s best-known charities.

Ayrshire Cancer Support is now taking registrations for its 2022 Boxing Day Dip - being held on Monday, December 26 at 11am.

Participants will receive an online fund-raising pack and supporting materials, along with support from the charity ‘s dedicated events team – and all those taking part who raise more than £400 for the charity will receive a free ‘oodie’ as a thank you gift.

The dip – a favourite fixture of Ayrshire’s festive season for many years – will take place on Ayr beach at 11am on Boxing Day and parking will be available at the Blackburn car park, where an Ayrshire Cancer Support marquee will be set up for on-the-day registration and for the charity’s personnel to give their support to everyone who is taking part.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “How many times have you said you want to try something new? It’s time to get your feet wet and join us all on Monday, December at 11am for a refreshing dip in the Ayrshire sea.

“There’s no minimum fund-raising target, but if you raise £400 or more you will receive an official Ayrshire Cancer Support Oodie.

“The more you raise, the more you will be helping people affected by cancer in Ayrshire.

“You will want to bring a nice big towel and a bag of dry clothes that someone can give to you shortly after getting out of the water.

“You will also absolutely want to wear some form of footwear, like sandals or old trainers – the ground in December is very, very cold!

“Finally, plan to have fun! The water is cold, but just dive in without hesitating, splash around a bit and then find that big fluffy towel. You will survive!”

There is no age limit for taking part in the event, though all those taking part who are under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Fancy dress is also encouraged – though not essential – and the charity says it is recommending that all those who take part do so in a group for safety reasons.

On-site medical professionals and coastguards will be available to provide help on the day of the event.

By signing up, participants agree they are medically able to take part in the dip, are fit to look after themselves, and do not have any medical condition that would make their participation more hazardous.

Those who sign up to take part also consent to medical care and transportation to obtain treatment in the event of injury.

Find out more information about the event and register at ayrshirecs.org/ayrshires-boxing-day-dip.