More than 140 fearless swimmers ‘brrrrraved’ the chilly waters of Cheltenham Lido last Sunday for the Sue Ryder Big Dip Cheltenham – raising over £15,000 so far for the palliative and bereavement support charity, with more donations expected to ‘pour’ in.
Now in its fourth year, the Big Dip Cheltenham has become a much‑loved local tradition, with participants entering in waves to take on the freezing 6‑degree pool. A new addition to the day for 2025 gave the chilly challengers the option to tackle a 200m or 300m swim alongside the dip.
Among those taking part was Nic Moorey, a complementary therapist at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, who dipped in memory of her mum Sandra, cared for at the hospice in 2018.
Nic said: “I do this to remember my mum and my friends’ loved ones. Working at the hospice, I also reflect on all the people who’ve come through our doors and the families we support. It’s a special place, and the Big Dip Cheltenham is a fabulous event. I@m already looking forward to next year!”
Spectators and swimmers alike enjoyed a festive atmosphere, with hot drinks to warm up afterwards and uplifting performances from the Musicality Community Choir and Cheltenham Children’s
Choir spreading Christmas cheer. The event also featured a performance from the Synchro StingRays, an open water artistic swimming group who perform in lakes and lidos across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire.
Jemma Luker, Senior Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, said: “Despite the weather it was brilliant to see so many people turn out and take on the cold-water temperatures, it was incredible to see the community come together to support Sue Ryder. Heartfelt thanks and well done to every single person who took part. The courage and enthusiasm shown by everyone was so inspiring.
“We are also very grateful to Cheltenham Lido for generously opening the pool for us this year, and to our sponsor A&E Fire and Security who helped us put on another great event. Thanks also to
our choirs who helped spread festive joy to participants and supporters alike. The money raised will help us ensure that we can continue to be there when it matters, because no one should have to face death or grief alone.”