WEYMOUTH Carnival Queen Gina Hartley is taking the plunge this Christmas – and others are encouraged to do the same.

The 21-year-old beauty is continuing the fundraising by taking part in the Weymouth and Portland Lions Club Harbour Swim tomorrow.

She is joining hundreds of others for the festive dip and has chosen to raise money for the Will Mackeness Trust, a cause close to her heart as she went to school with Will.

Established in Will’s memory by his mum Pam Govier, the trust gives youngsters a chance to try water sports and gives financial aid to those who have a talent for it, with an aim of creating a new generation of Olympic sailors.

Gina said: “One of Will’s passions was water sports especially windsurfing.

“It is for this reason that the trust has been set up to help give more water sport opportunities to pupils, so they can experience the fun and exhilaration of windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and kayaking for themselves.

“I would appreciate any donations that can be made to this great charity.”

Gina is no stranger to the swim as she completed it last year with a friend, also raising money for the Will Mackaness Trust.

Taking the plunge this year crowns an eventful year for Gina who has been a great ambassador for the town, presiding over a successful carnival and taking part in numerous events.

There’s still time to sign up for the swim. Registration can be done online or between 9.45am to 10.45am on the day.

The first swim, at 11am, will be started by Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Ray Banham.

This year, registration will be on the Brewers Quay side and as last year, transport and sacks will be available to take clothing to the other side. A ‘landing beach’ will be available again this year courtesy of Pontoon-works Beaches.

There’s a £5 minimum entry fee but it’s free for under 16s.

For more information and entry forms call Mark Lockie on 07971 441214 or visit weymouthlionsclub.co.uk To support Gina visit virginmoneygiving.com and type and search ‘Gina Hartley’.