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Takes the plunge with ‘brrr-and’ new cold-water event for Sue Ryder

Monday, 20 October 2025 at 11:16

Debbie (far left) is taking the plunge with Sue Ryder's new cold water event

Sue Ryder is inviting Ilkley residents to make a splash this winter with a ‘brrr-illiant’ new cold-water event – The Big Dip Dales.  

Taking place on Sunday 7 December at Draughton Heights Campsite between Ilkley and Skipton, the icy challenge invites brave participants to plunge into open water for ten invigorating minutes, all while raising money for Sue Ryder’s expert palliative and bereavement care.  

One of the first to sign up is 39-year-old Debbie Berry from Bradley. An open water swimmer enthusiast, Debbie is taking part in memory of her mum, Rose Boothman, who was cared for at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice earlier this year. 

Debbie said:

“My mum died in August after living with breast cancer for several years. She spent her final eight days at Sue Ryder, but she’d also used their day services before that. She loved being there, just looking out the window in her room at nature brought her peace.  

“The staff were incredible. They made a fuss of her, and of me. After she died, the support was fantastic. They deserve every penny they raise.” 

Rose, who lived in Silsden, was 68 when she died. “She loved life,” Debbie continued.

“She never waited for retirement to live it. She was selfless, wholehearted, and so loved – 150 people came to her funeral.” 

Debbie has taken part in several Sue Ryder events before, including the Wharfedale Pub Walk, the Solstice Saunter, and the Bolton Abbey Run. But Debbie says The Big Dip Dales offers something different:

“It’s great to have a brand-new event that isn’t like other fundraising events.  

“I started cold water swimming a few years ago and have swum at Draughton Heights where the Big Dip Dales is taking place a few times. It’s a beautiful lake. When you’re in the water, everything else disappears – you just focus on your breathing. It’s invigorating, you really feel at one with nature.” 

The Big Dip Dales isn’t just for experienced dippers. Debbie shared her advice for first timers:

“Take your time and give it a go. Ten minutes is a long time if you’re not used to it, so build up slowly and stay within your depth. You’ll be surprised what you can do.” 

Talking about the new event, Adam Brunskill, Senior Community Fundraiser at Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, said:

“We’re thrilled to launch this icy new event for residents in West Yorkshire. Cold water dipping is growing in popularity, and Draughton Heights is the perfect setting for experienced cold-water enthusiasts and newbies to join us and take the plunge for Sue Ryder, a huge thank you to them for hosting our event. We’re so grateful to Debbie diving in with us!” 

The Big Dip Dales is open to anyone aged 18+. All funds raised will help Sue Ryder continue providing expert end-of-life care and bereavement support across the region. 

To sign up or find out more, visit www.sueryder.org/bigdipdales

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