Lyme Lunge attracts nearly 200 swimmers and 1,000 spectators despite the driving rain

Midweek Herald: The Lyme Lunge 2014. Picture by Alex Walton. Ref mha 1985-01-14AW. To order your copy of this photograph go to www.midweekherald.co.uk and click on Photo OrdersThe Lyme Lunge 2014. Picture by Alex Walton. Ref mha 1985-01-14AW. To order your copy of this photograph go to www.midweekherald.co.uk and click on Photo Orders (Image: Archant)

IT was almost as wet out as in – but nearly 200 hardy swimmers braved atrocious weather to take part in the New Year’s Day dip in the sea at Lyme Regis.

Despite driving rain and howling gales the Rotary Club’s annual Lyme Lunge took place as scheduled on the sandy beach near The Cobb.

Club president Guy Hayden led around 180 swimmers into a turbulent sea, watched by more than 1,000 people.

“We will not know for a few days the amount raised for charities”, he said.

“Certainly it will be in excess of £3,500, given what we already know has been promised in sponsorship. Some people raised funds for our chosen charity, Clic Sargent, others for their own chosen charity.

“Everyone had a great day out, what fun! Thanks to the RNLI volunteers who kept us all safe.”