New Year's Day Dip cancelled due to wind warning

An annual New Year's Day dip which saw more than 400 people brave the sea in 2024 has been cancelled due to weather conditions.

Organisers of the New Year's Day Dip held at Sheringham in Norfolk made the decision because of a yellow weather warning for strong winds.

Richard Myhill, chairman of the Sheringham and Cromer Round Table, said with the beach near a built up area, strong winds could lead to roof tiles becoming lose and unpredictable waves for swimmers.

"We can't guarantee it will be safe enough and we would rather make the call now when people can make alternative arrangements," he explained.

The Met Office warning was put in place for 00:15 GMT on Wednesday until 15:00.

Mr Myhill also worried that the event would lead to additional traffic on the roads during the adverse weather conditions.

The event was held for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2024.

More than 1,000 were believed to have watched the dip last year.

"We are absolutely gutted. A lot of people have put a lot of work into this but people's safety is paramount," Mr Myhill added.

"We wouldn't want anything to happen and then the event never goes ahead again."

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