Organisers of the New Year’s dook in Broughty Ferry hope to make a triumphant return after a dip in numbers taking part.
Wearing nothing but their swimming costumes, intrepid dookers Joyce McIntosh and Vivien Scott were joined by Dundee’s Depute Lord Provost, Kevin Cordell, to promote the event.
It comes amid fears the annual tradition – which used to attract as many as 400 participants – may have been forgotten during the coronavirus pandemic.
The event was cancelled in 2021 and this year only 53 people were able to take part due to ongoing restrictions.
But it’s hoped the endurance test could see a return to strength on January 1 2023, with those brave enough to take on the challenge being urged to sign up now.
Joyce, who is life president of Ye Amphibious Ancients Bathing Association (YeAbba), the group that organises the event, says they want to reverse the decline in numbers.
She said: “We want to get the dook back to the numbers that we had attending in the past.
“Over the past couple of years, due to Covid-19, people have reduced the number of activities that they have taken part in.
“We want to reverse that trend; the dook is a fun event for all the family.
“We are grateful for the support of the Depute Lord Provost, who will be on hand to set the dookers off on January 1.”
The tradition dates back to 1891, where the fishing communities of Broughty Ferry would gather to herald the New Year.
Coronavirus restrictions ended the event’s continuous run no matter the weather, including in 1989.
Locals braved the waters even though pickaxes had to be used to break the ice.
How to take part
Entries for the event are open online for adults (£15) and children (£10) until December 24, although registration will be open until 11am at Broughty Ferry Harbour on New Year’s Day.
Conversation