Ali’s Febrrrruary sea dips in aid of people in need

The leader of The Salvation Army in Great Yarmouth is braving the cold for charity by taking a daily dip in the North Sea every day in February.

Territorial Envoy Ali James said she wanted to demonstrate commitment to the church and charity’s outreach work in the town and will put money raised towards Sally’s Store, The Salvation Army’s community supermarket to provide residents with access to affordable food and the charity’s Food Bank in the town.

Ali said: “It’s an extreme enough challenge to get a bit of attention and it will also establish a good habit for me in continuing to swim in this new environment. I’d seen someone else had done a 24h Danceathon and thought what a great idea, but then realised I probably wouldn’t manage it or even be able to walk for about two weeks afterwards.

“I knew it was going to be cold but I wanted to do something that acknowledges people are suffering to show solidarity with them. This is such a difficult time for everybody.”

Ali is being cheered on by husband Ray and their pet husky, Tundra.

She explained: “Ray comes down to hold my dry robe, hot-water bottle and hot drink and be shore support. He’s wearing my new yellow fluorescent Salvation Army coat so that we’re easily spotted should anyone be daft enough to come down and laugh at the mad woman in the water.”

Ali is braving the icy waters in the early morning on Yarmouth Beach although she may move it to lunchtime if friends want to come down and support. She’s been posting selfies on her Facebook page

She said: “It has been such a difficult time for everybody. Anything anyone can spare really will be gratefully received. Thank you in advance for anything you can do.”

You can donate to Ali’s February fundraiser by clicking here