Les Bourgs Hospice’s most recent fundraising event – the ’12 Bays of Christmas’ – raised £17,400.
According to the charity, 311 participants completed swims at twelve designated bays across Guernsey during December, which the hospice describes as a “significant increase” compared to previous years.
Last year’s event raised £12,000 for the charity.
The hospice said more family groups and local businesses took part, with several companies mentioned specifically by the charity as having encouraged staff participation.
These included HFL, SRS, Canaccord, Albany Trustee, and AlterDomus, with the charity also thanking the Advisory Group for sponsoring the ’12 Bays’ event.
Les Bourgs said one woman in particular had to be highlighted for her contribution.
Joyce Tonkinson was the highest individual fundraiser with a solo total of £3,095.
Liz Stonebridge, Fundraising Manager at Les Bourgs Hospice, said everyone’s efforts combined to make a wonderful and successful event.
“We have been absolutely blown away by the response to this year’s 12 Bays of Christmas,” she said.
“To see so many people — families, friends and work colleagues — coming together to support the Hospice in such a positive and adventurous way has been incredibly uplifting.”
The funds raised go to supporting the charity’s provision of specialist palliative care, crucial for Les Bourgs Hospice which makes clear the importance of community fundraising, in order to maintain its free services for patients and families on the island.
“Winter sea swimming is not easy and we know that December is a busy time for many which makes it even more of a challenge to complete,” said Ms Stonebridge.
“Whether it was someone taking their first ever cold-water dip or teams organising lunchtime swims together, the sense of camaraderie was wonderful to see. We’re so grateful to everyone who took part, donated and our sponsor Advisory Group.”