It's an old tradition shared by many waterfront communities here. . . . . . . and probably
around the world. Crazy brave souls don their swimwear and jump or paddle into
freezing cold water for the Boxing Day Dip on December 26th.
I was sitting at the table enjoying a late breakfast when screams and yells rose from
the beach below! Hurrying to the window I was amazed by the huge crowd which
had appeared on the sands. Many were already in the water, some with their
four-legged friends, perhaps clearing their fuzzy heads after the overeating
and drinking which has become usual for many over the holiday season!
With this lousy head cold I had no plans to join in - plus I forgot to pack my
swimsuit, or the even more needed wetsuit!
This beach is Torre Abbey Sands, one I frequented as a young child because the
water is shallow for a long way out, therefore safe for children and a great place to
learn to swim. The large white building to the left is the Grand Hotel.
The long building closest to the grass is the stadium at the Recreation Grounds where
rugby football is played. The one behind it, with the more fancy roof, is Torquay
Station - trains arrive from all over the UK here bringing tourists to enjoy the coastal
towns, country villages, Dartmoor, and Tor Bay which is popular for sailing etc.
Harbour sunset this evening.
Tomorrow morning we leave here for London - more coming later
when I get home, and get caught up.
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