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Plucky swimmers welcome 2018 with charity loch dip

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By Bob Geddes
Annan and Eskdale
Plucky swimmers welcome 2018 with charity loch dip

MORE than 40 hardy swimmers braved the icy cold waters of Loch Ken at Crossmichael, near Castle Douglas to welcome 2018.

The charity swim in the village over the New Year holiday period started more than 30 years ago and has raised thousands of pounds for village clubs and organisations as well as national charities.

The swimmers braved a water temperature of only four degrees and this year they were joined by a four-year-old Newfoundland dog called Rupert who decided it was better to go by paddle board along with owner Mathew Williams.

Rupert is an experienced rescue dog but he wasn’t needed this time.

Organiser Jim McLellan, from the near-by Thistle Inn, said: “I’ve done all the swims bar last year. It’s a tradition in the village now and and great for fundraising.

“This year the main fund-raising is to maintain a piece of ground for the children which has been gifted to the village. Money raised will also to various organisations as well. It’s a real fun way to start 2018.

“We get people coming from all over the the swim every year.”

 

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