Boxing Day's big splash

They ran into the icy surf to raise just more than 500 for Felpham Sea Scouts.

The money will be used to maintain their base in Vicarage Lane.

One of those who took part was Explorer Scout Oliver Lewis (16).

The only Scout involved, he said: "It was very cold in the sea. It was amazing how quickly the cold hit you.

"We could only stay in the sea for a minute or so.

"I think it was colder than when we did the dip last year. The only way to do the dip was to run into the sea and get your face straight under the water.

"It really pleased the crowd when we did that."

Among those who took the plunge were group scout leader Kim Rhodes, her son and scout leader Adam Rhodes, scout leader Tim Holland, assistant leader Paul Embleton with more than 200 of sponsorship, scout leader Kirsten Scott and sailing club member John Breach.

Some 200 people gathered on the foreshore in front of Felpham Sailing Club, off Blakes Road, to watch the watery fun in the morning.

They were entertained by a commentary by the scout group chairman, Roger Lewis.

The hot mince pies available went down really well.

Many of the spectators also took advantage of the teas and coffees on sale at the sailing club.

Its facilities were made available to the scout group.

This was the second year of the dip following the success of the initial occasion.

The event will be repeated in 2009.

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