...2006 Boxing Day Swim Local Press Article Continued

Soup served by Tenby and Saundersfoot Lions Club warmed the dippers up, as did the blazing beach bonfire constructed by Graham Morris and helpers.

Popular DJ Steve Briers was on hand to give a festive commentary, while safety cover was provided by Tenby Surf Lifesaving Club, the RNLI, HM Coastguard and St. John Ambulance; the latter two treating two people at the scene for the effects of the cold.

Prior to the dash for the splash, there was a canoe race, while the raft race, revived this year after a three-year absence, was hotly contested between Ky Wright and his team and the craft constructed by David Jones, with Ky's crew making it around the course to lift the coveted Golden Monkey trophy.

Tenby Sea Swimming Association chairman Chris Osborne said he was "very impressed", with nearly 100 more swimmers than last year taking part.

"We welcomed a stunning turnout, enjoyed some superb fancy dress costumes and hopefully will raise more money than ever for charity," he said. "With the support of so many people and organisations, the swim seems to get better year on year." And whilst all local eyes were on Tenby, former Saundersfoot man and Boxing Day Swim veteran Dai Roberts, who has previously staged swims over the pond when he was based at the Nato HQ in Norfolk, Virginia, USA, took the plunge in the River Thames near to where he now lives in Marlow, Buckinghamshire.

Swimmers from the Tenby event are asked to hand in their sponsorship money as soon as possible so that the final amount can be totaled. One youngster who has been busy collecting sponsorship was 10-year-old George McBeth, of Begelly, who along with his family, raised £1,010 in less than a week for his school, Tenby Junior School. Swimmers who took part in the dip for their own nominated charities are also asked to inform the Tenby Sea Swimming Association of their total.

Article provided by Tenby Observer. Many Thanks.