Swimmers to raise funds for mental health by baring all

The inaugural SW Skinny event will return on Sunday 17 May 2020 at Summerleaze Beach, Bude, Cornwall, after a hugely successful event last year.

In May 2019, 150 people stripped off at Summerleaze Beach to raise awareness and funds for the mental health charity, Mind.

The event, which was organised by local woman Ruth Hunt after she had battled through depression herself, marked the final day of Mental Health Awareness week and saw participants ranging in age from 3 to 73.

Ruth was inspired to arrange the event after listening to an interview on Simon Mayo’s radio show when a lady called Jax Higginson phoned in to promote her skinny dip in Northumberland.

“It just seemed like the perfect event for mental health awareness to me. Overcoming discomfort and conquering fears and insecurities, a rush of endorphins, the immense sense of achievement and bringing people together,” said Ruth.

Last year’s event raised £4,534.19 for Mind, which began with a bonfire where participants camped and got to know one another before the event.

On her reasons for arranging the event, she said: “I have suffered from depression since the break-up of my marriage. I have a wonderful family and friends, but it doesn’t stop that “big black dog” of depression returning with little notice or regard for the strength you need to work through it when it rears its ugly head.

“I had to do something to give back, so I took on the challenge of organising the SW Skinny. I’m literally overwhelmed by the support we’ve had and the amount we raised.”

For tickets, visit http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sw-skinny-2020-registration-86215981321?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Photo credit: Colin Brundle & Rob Tibbles