MORE than £27,000 has been collected for the Macmillan Unit at Christchurch Hospital by hardy fundraisers who took a dip in icy waters at Christmas.

The White Christmas Dip, organised in aid of the palliative care service at Christchurch Hospital, raised the impressive amount with their Christmas Day dip in the sea at Boscombe.

More than 600 people donned fancy dress for the festive plunge this year.

And the total could yet rise, with money still to be collected.

The swim has become a regular event on the festive calendar, growing in size over the years.

Started in 2008 by the Baker family, the event has become a tradition over the years for many supporters of the unit at Christchurch Hospital.

It rapidly gained local interest and in 2013 the charity made it one of their official events.

Founder Tom Baker said: “Over the years this event has gone from strength to strength, with 2014 being the biggest dip yet.

“Over 600 participants joined us in this festive plunge, and in doing so exceeded all expectations.

“A big thank you to all the local companies that sponsored us this year, without their help we couldn’t have raised £27,000.”

Neal Williams, trust secretary of Macmillan Caring Locally, added: “The Macmillan White Christmas Dip exceeded all our expectations this year.

“It was a perfect day weather-wise, and we were truly humbled to see so many people joining us in this fun, annual event.

“Donations are still coming in, so the fundraising total is growing.

“Our sincere thanks go to everyone who took part, those who gave so generously, and our team of volunteers who work so hard during the build-up and on the day.

“We would also like to thank the founders of the event, John White and Tommy Baker. Their inspiration and enthusiasm has helped raise over £65,000 for the Macmillan Unit since the event began.”

Go to whitechristmasdip.co.uk for more information.