Deal’s traditional Boxing Day Dip has been scrapped for the second year running, despite receiving improved water quality certification weeks ago.
The Environment Agency upgraded Castle Beach’s water rating to “good” in November, raising hopes the festive swim could return this Christmas.
However, Deal Rotary Club announced on Friday it had “finally had to admit defeat” in its efforts to stage the event.
The charity explained on social media: “It was always a challenge to put the event on safely, given the short lead-in time following the reclassification of our sea water to ‘good’ by the Environment Agency.”
The annual swim was first called off in 2024 after sea water conditions at the Kent beach were deemed unsuitable for bathing.
High levels of E.coli had prompted serious concerns about swimmer safety earlier this year.
Measurements taken at Deal Castle showed bacterial readings 2.5 times higher than those recorded the previous year.
The Environment Agency, responsible for monitoring bacteria levels at bathing sites throughout England, subsequently confirmed in November conditions at Deal Castle Beach had improved sufficiently to merit the upgraded classification.
The Boxing Day tradition was cancelled with just two weeks’ notice
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Deal Rotary Club noted preparations for the Boxing Day swim typically commence during the summer months, leaving organisers with a tight window after receiving the November reclassification.
The charity expressed disappointment but remained positive about future prospects.
“Whilst it is a disappointment for us all, the work put in stands us in good stead for next year’s dip and, unless the stage changes yet again, we aim to give everyone plenty of time to get their sponsors signed up for their individual charities,” the club stated.
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