The Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim has once again proven to be a resounding success, raising over £31,000 for local charities through community effort and spirit.

Recently, the New Year’s Day Swim Committee met at Saundersfoot Sailing Club to present cheques totalling over £31,000 to local organisations and charities.

A spokesperson for the NYDS committee said that there was a ‘fantastic atmosphere’ at the presentation evening.

“It’s wonderful to see local charities, community groups and organisations coming together as we presented this year’s donations following our record-breaking 40th Anniversary Swim,” they stated.

“With 3,323 registered swimmers taking part on New Year’s Day 2026, this truly has been a year to remember. Thank you to everyone who helped make it possible.

“Tonight’s presentation evening was a wonderful reminder of what this event is really about - raising funds for deserving charities, organisations and community groups!

“To everyone involved with the swim, thank you for continuing to support this very special Saundersfoot tradition.”

Cllr Chris Williams, county councillor for the seaside village’s south ward, and NYDS committee member remarked: “This figure represents only a fraction of what has already been raised from the 2026 event, with additional donations paid directly to charities and online fundraising platforms, sponsorship, and individual contributions.

“The success of the New Year’s Day Swim is a true reflection of the incredible community spirit within Saundersfoot and the wider area.”

The event has grown into far more than just a festive dip, it is now one of the most important community-led charity events in Wales and proudly remains the largest festive dip in the United Kingdom.

“What makes the event so special is the remarkable level of support and buy-in from all corners of the community,” continued Cllr Williams.

“From local businesses and sponsors, to volunteers, marshals, safety teams, committee members, local organisations, and residents, everyone plays a vital role in ensuring the event can take place safely and successfully each year. Without this collective effort and commitment, the event simply would not be possible.

“The swim continues to bring people together, generate significant funding for worthy causes, and showcase Saundersfoot at its very best,” he added.

One of those charities to benefit, was Pembrokeshire-based animal rescue centre Greenacres.

“We were delighted to attend the Saundersfoot NYDS Presentation Evening at Saundersfoot Sailing Club last night and celebrate the incredible community spirit behind this amazing event,” they shared.

“We were incredibly grateful to receive a very generous cheque of £2,000 for Greenacres Animal Rescue. A huge thank you to the Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim Committee for organising such a fantastic event, and a very special thank you to The Royal Oak Saundersfoot, for choosing Greenacres as their nominated charity — your support means so much to the animals in our care.

“If you’re thinking about taking part in the 2027 swim, you can choose Greenacres as your nominated charity and help raise vital funds for the animals in our care,” they added.