Starting the day off right: a daily sea plunge for charity!

02 May 2024

James Penn has set out to swim in the North Sea every morning of 2024. He has been raising funds for two charities including SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Each morning James leaves his home in Felixstowe, Suffolk, and heads for the coast. He originally began his daily sea dips after being inspired by a friend, and as a test of discipline to himself. As James continued on with his challenge he thought, “I may as well try and raise some money along the way.”

James has no personal connection to the military; he is not a servicemember, nor are any of his close family. He feels strongly about raising money for SSAFA, because in his words, “I don't believe that anyone that has fought for our country should be left on the street, or struggle to get any sort of care they need.”

James has made many friends throughout his challenge, joining a community of seasoned sea dippers. They have a tight-knit group of six to ten members who dip daily, with several more people joining them on the weekends.