THE spectacle of hundreds of people jumping into Weymouth Harbour for a Christmas Day dip will not be witnessed this year after organisers announced they would have to cancel the landmark event.

Covid restrictions preventing large gatherings have forced Weymouth & Portland Lions Club to cancel the festive fundraiser – although the club has come up with another idea to fill the gap.

Club president Ryan Hope said members had thought about organising a scaled-down version of the swim but feared it would be too risky because of potential crowds. Some club members are also self isolating so there are fewer marshals available.

Hundreds of people usually take part and the harbourside is packed with thousands of spectators. The event's origins date back to 1948.

Mr Hope said although there will not be an official organised event it may not stop individuals who want to swim. This was the case in 1999 when the event was cancelled due to the state of the water but a handful of swimmers still decided to have a dip. Swimming across the harbour without safety cover is not advised however.

The Lions have instead come up with the Big December Dip which Mr Hope said was a "great, fun idea which allows people to participate in a safe way”.

Anyone can enter - don your outfit and take a dip in the bath or the sea and make sure it's captured on camera as the Lions want to see your pictures and videos. Have a dip at any time throughout December and raise money for your chosen charity.

Club president-elect Kevin Brookes said: “We know many charities and particularly local ones have struggled this year and this gives everyone an opportunity to raise much-needed funds for good causes, whilst staying safe. Whilst we are encouraging Dorset residents to participate, anyone else in the UK is welcome to take on the Big December Dip at any time throughout the month."

Entrants are encouraged to dress up and think of imaginative dips, take photos and videos and share these to social media with the hashtag #bigdecemberdip. The Lions are offering £50 to the person raising the most funds for their chosen charity and a further £50 to the entrant who takes the best photo or video for his or her charity.

Club member Hilary Maxwell added: “It’s a great fun way to lift spirits at the end of a very difficult year.”

To enter, email k2brookes@aol.com