Sea swimmers take the plunge for charity

Some 15 participants took part in the event close to the boathouse: the hardiest stayed in the choppy seas for almost an hour.

Self-employed tiler Ryan Caldwell, 28, braved the conditions on Sunday afternoon for 52 minutes. Runner-up was the event’s organiser, Matt Minter, 37, who managed 51 minutes, and Anna Waldrop, 15, endured the sea for 50 minutes.

Matt said: “All went well – it was a tremendous laugh. The weather was horrendous with waves crashing on to the beach, but that didn’t stop us. Even Jack Minter, 11, jumped in. We had about 15 people participate in jumping in the sea and lots of supporters despite the awful weather.”

The event raised £160 for the Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice near Arundel. Everyone who took part put in £5 each and spectators also made donations. The person who stays in the longest decides where the money goes.

The event, recently started by Matt, is likely to be done in fancy dress next year.