And they're off.... the loony dookers make a dash for the sea.
It was certainly an invigorating start to the New Year. Scores of swimmers from as far afield as Holland took part in Dornoch's Loony Dook yesterday, Monday January 1, along with just many spectators.
They gathered on the beach at around 11.15am for an 11.30am dash into the chilly waters of the Dornoch Firth - the water temperature was estimated to be around 6C.
Members of East Sutherland Rescue Association (ESRA) were on hand as usual to provide water safety cover and also to offer hot refreshments for donations to charity after the event.
From left, Jude Patterson and Aileen McAllister, both Dornoch, and Annette Mercer, Inverness.Members of Dornoch Dookers Cold Water Group, from left, Sam Le Gallez, Laura Mayo, Helen Gardener, Martin Sloan, Michael Sloan, Hugh Mackay and Hazel Maclean. The group was formed over a year ago by Hugh Mackay of Dornoch and is run by Rose and Martin Sloan of Clashmore. Dornoch Dookers meet every Sunday either at Dornoch or Embo beach. Members range in age from five to 86 and more members would be welcome. Rose Sloan said: "It makes you feel like a million dollars. You come out of the water and you are set for the day." The group have a Facebook page.Euan Sinclair with Florrie and Quentin Booth, Aberdeenshire.Janice Pike, Ardross.Robert Steele and Gaynor Burt, Paisley.Dutch couple Egbert and Marianne Vennik from Rotterdam holiday in Scotland every New Year, but usually stay in Sky. This year they decided to visit Dornoch and decided to take part in the Loony Dook.William Low, far right, with Ethan Patience, Emma Low and Ava Macdonald, all of Alness.Looking festive in a Christmas tree outfit.Shirley, Naomi and Ben Mack, of Tain.Swimmers coming out of the water.
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