The much-loved Macmillan White Christmas Dip will be returning for its 14th year and is there a better way to spend Christmas morning?

Macmillan's White Christmas Dip sees thousands of people charge into the sea in fancy dress on Christmas morning.

Last year, on a cold, wet and grey Christmas morning, loyal participants, families and friends turned out in force to support the dip, which raises funds for Macmillan Caring Locally.

Here's what you need to know as registration is open.

What is the White Christmas Dip?

It's the UK's biggest charity dip to raise money for the Macmillan Unit at Christchurch Hospital.

When will it take place?

The dip takes place at 10.30am on Christmas morning to the right of Boscombe Pier (as you are looking out to sea).

All dippers should arrive in plenty of time, park away from the pier and walk down as it can get very congested around the pier. Once signed in, dippers can join in the pre-dip fun on the beach. 

Register hereBournemouth Echo:

When did it start?

The dip began in 2008 when John White, who had recently been diagnosed with cancer, decided to join the Spartans in their annual Christmas morning swim.

After arriving at Boscombe Pier with his family, each of them dressed in fancy-dress and ready to charge into the sea, John was surprised to find nobody else around.

The following year the family did the same, but with an extended group.

They saw this as an opportunity to raise money for charity and the Macmillan White Christmas Dip was born.

How much has it raised so far? 

To date, the White Christmas Dip has raised more than £295,000 for Macmillian Caring Locally, which is used to provide much-needed palliative care for patients with advanced, progressive or incurable illnesses, and support for their families during incredibly difficult times.

The event is Macmillan Caring Locally’s biggest annual fundraiser.

Bournemouth Echo:

How can we help if we don't want to dip?

If each "dipper" raised just £50 in sponsorship, more than £50,000 would be raised for Macmillan Caring Locally in one Christmas morning.

You can donate here.

What else?

Please remember to report back to the registration desk after your dip so organisers know you are safely out of the water.