THERE were a record-breaking number of swimmers participating in the Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim this year, according to organisers.
The event welcomed a grand total of 2,048 swimmers – the best-ever number in its 36-year history.
They were cheered by huge crowds of spectators, as they made their way down the beach, following a countdown led by Great British Bake Off star Michelle Evans-Fecci and to the accompaniment of a firework launch courtesy of Westcoast Fireworks.
Martyn Williams, chairman of Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim said: “The swim has become an integral part of the festive season for this area. I would also like to encourage all swimmers to raise as much money as possible for their chosen charity or worthy cause. We will ensure that every penny raised will go to that charity. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank once again the swim’s sponsors for their generous support. If you are holidaying in the Saundersfoot area over the New Year, why not join in the swim. It attracts thousands of spectators, who flock to the village to revel in the celebrations and cheer the thousand or so brave swimmers who don fancy dress outfits to take the plunge and raise money for worthwhile causes.”
The swim is organised by Saundersfoot Festivities, whose chairman, Martyn Williams, said: “The village and wider community have done us proud again.
“We could not have conceived 36 years ago that we would be here hosting such a major event.”
The group fancy dress winners were Stepaside Coachworks with their Roadworks scene.
Second place went to the Phillips and Vaux family with Alice in Wonderland, while Malin House Hotel’s Cool Runnings was third.
The individual prize went to Mark Halford, who was Dilys the Fish. Barbara Camp as Drummer Boy was second, while Mr Hayman as Worzel Gummidge was third.
(Image Gareth Davies Photography for The Herald)
