Gemma Eardley & Chris Dent before the big 'splash'

 

Here they are again, the intrepid duo, ready and waiting for their annual Boxing Day dip in the ocean. Hey Chris - you're looking mighty 'blue' before you start!

 

And in Christopher's very own 'brrrrrrrrr' words:

"Well once again I was persuaded into accompanying Gemma at the Tenby Boxing Day Swim. We arose early on the 26th to get food in our systems and shake off any Christmas Day hangovers (and I had a task ahead - to get into my costume!)

"The theme this year was 'Children's Favourites' and after much deliberation Gem decided to go as Andy-Pandy (owing much to her Mum's home made costume). I opted for something a bit wilder and stupid and no prizes for guessing what I am from the photos. We arrived on the beach at around 11 am where the crowds had already started to form. Most people opting for the hot drinks outlet (and that was all the fully dressed people). Again there was lots of support from not only locals but most of Gem's family who all came dressed in coats, hats, scarves and gloves not to mention the cameras! Not really fair when you are semi naked on a beach in December. Anyway, after the 11:20 raft race and appearance of the lifeboat in the distance. They gave the 10 minute call for the big swim. We removed our dressing gowns, shows, socks, gloves, jumpers, t-shirts, trousers, long Johns and all other non-essential items when going in the sea.

"The preliminary photos were taken by parents and family and we headed to join the crowds. The excitement grew as the local newspaper photographer called us over for a quick shot (although we have had no confirmation of an appearance in the paper). At just after 11:30 a flare rose into the sky and chaos ensued as over 300 people dashed towards the waters edge. Time seems to stop as you first hit the water and your adrenaline stops you from feeling the 'real' water temperature. We waded in up to our waists with screaming, laughter and shouting going on all around.

"Finally we decided it was time and both took a deep breath and dived into the murky depths. I'm not sure of the actual temperature but I can tell you it wasn't warm. After some further wading and deep breaths the feeling in our legs began to fade and I could barely feel my toes. We swam around for a few minutes but the sea was quite shallow for the distance we were from the shore and so we decided to head inland. One final wrestle at the waters edge was caught on camera by Gem's mum and we hit dry land. Towel's, dressing gowns and a cup of tea awaited us as well as the communal bonfire to warm ourselves by. The Mayor battled through all the commotion handing out the 2008 medals and congratulations. After a warming brew, drying off and change of clothes the crowds dispersed and we headed home - slightly less blue than when I entered the water.

"Once again an excellent but cold experience with great support from family and the locals. We raised over £350 between us. Some via websites and some cash."

The just giving website address's are below:

www.justgiving.com/chrisdent1

www.justgiving.com/geardley

Well done to you both and thank you from everyone at Edward's Trust!