Druridge Bay Skinny Dippers Attempt World Record

A South Tyneside woman is encouraging swimmers to take part in a mass skinny dip off the Northumberland Coast.

The skinny dip is being organised by paramedic and 'wild swimming' enthusiast Jacqueline Higginson, 34, of Whitburn, South Tyneside. 

So far more than 100 people have registered, but more than 413 nude participants are needed to smash a new Guinness World Record for the most naked people in the sea at one time.

Jacqueline was inspired to organise the stunt after taking part in a similar event at Rhossili bay in Gower, Wales, when 413 people plunged naked into the sea to raise more than £25,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care and the National Trust, as well as setting a world record.

The Druridge Bay dip will raise money for mental health charity Mind.

Jacqueline said: "We have got more than 100 people signed up for the Druridge Bay dip at present but we need a lot more to get involved if we want to set a new record.

"We are going to need a certain number of dippers if we are going to cover the costs involved and raise money for Mind.

"Last year's skinny dip in Wales was such a unique and special experience that I wanted to share it with people in the North East, as well as raising money to raise awareness of the important work of mental health charities.

"I would urge people to pay £10 and register because if they come along on the day and feel what the atmosphere is like, I would bet my last dollar that they would take part.

"They can change their minds and not go into the sea naked if they don't want to, but I'm certain they will shed their inhibitions when they get there.

"There was a lot of excitement and nerves before last summer's dip in Wales but when it happened people just went for it and loved it."

Jacqueline and her supporters will have to cover the costs of public liability insurance, portaloos, lifeguards and food and drink on the day, and are also appealing for people to act as volunteer stewards.

It is planned that the dippers will go into the sea at sunrise, at approximately 6.50am.

The National Trust has granted permission for the event to go ahead as it owns the area.

It costs £10 to take part and to register click here.