Supporters brrrr-ave the splash for Sue Ryder
Forty-five brave swimmers brrr-aved the icy waters of Woburn Lido, diving head first into Sue Ryder’s recent Big Dip Bedford charity challenge.
The festive challenge, which took place on Sunday, November 30, saw participants plunge into the freezing pool – with temperatures dipping as low as 15 degrees – for up to 30 minutes. Every shiver and splash helped raise money to support the charity’s expert and compassionate care.
The plucky dippers, including staff members from Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice in Moggerhanger, and several wearing festive headgear, have so far raised an incredible £6,000 to support the charity's palliative and bereavement support services.
Lynn Camp, from Leighton Buzzard, was one of the swimmers taking the plunge.
Lynn, who began cold water swimming four years ago after being inspired by Wim Hof’s television programme, donned some festive Santa pyjamas for the swim.
She said: “When you first go in, you think, oh my gosh, this is a bit chilly… and then you kick off and you’re away, doing your laps. It makes you feel very alive, very zingy.”
Reflecting on the positive atmosphere of the day, she added: “It was such a nice day, the sun was out, and people had dressed up – some with little Santa hats on. It was really jolly, and a lovely opportunity for me and my friends to talk to each other and reflect on people we’ve lost, as well as those currently receiving treatment or being supported by Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice. It’s nice to be able to put something back.”
For Lynn, the swim was also deeply personal: “I first became involved with Sue Ryder when my dear friend, Claire Shuttleworth, was cared for by Sue Ryder Duchess of Kent Hospice in Reading. Wanting to honour her memory, I later took part in a charity lake swim raising funds for Sue Ryder. It was a special way for me to celebrate Claire’s life while giving something back.”
She reflected: “Now I do cold water swimming three times a week. I’m addicted! Every time I come out of the water, I think, that was good, I can get on with my day now. I feel refreshed and energised.
“I’ll definitely be back to do Sue Ryder Big Dip Bedford next year and would encourage people just to have a go. It’s something completely different and you can be raising funds for a really good cause.”
Roisin Duggan, Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, added: “I’d like to say a huge well done and thank you to all the brave swimmers who took part in our fantastic event at the weekend. It was great to see so many smiles, with people ‘dipping’ outside their comfort zone to support Sue Ryder. We’re also incredibly grateful to Woburn Lido for letting us use their fabulous facilities.”
She continued: “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.”
If you feel inspired to take part in a fundraising challenge for Sue Ryder in 2026, visit: Events | Sue Ryder
To find out more about Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice, visit: www.sueryder.org/stjohns