VITAL funds were raised for the Wessex Cancer Trust at the third annual New Year's Day Dip at Shanklin beach.

Around 130 people gathered at the Salix Beach Cafe for the pirate-themed event, to brave the waves for the charity's crisis appeal.

Salix owner Mari Griffiths said: "It was a very successful day and we were very happy it didn't rain.

"It was hard work to host it, but completely worth the effort. We pride ourselves on being a community based business.

"One family raised £500 on their own, and everyone seemed to have a lot of fun."

Mari and her partner, head chef Mark Legg, hired Steppin' Out Boogie Bus to DJ at the event, and provided mulled wine and mince pies for participants.

There was a treasure hunt, with 160 hand painted pirate-themed pebbles to find, and a bagpipe player.

Mike Sizer-Green, the trust's Newport branch manager, said: "We must extend a huge thank you to all of those who took part on the day and donated to our crisis fund.

"We are expecting a total in the region of £3,000 to have been raised, which is invaluable to our cause. Last year we helped more than 1,000 individuals with counselling, therapies and other services, which the money will help us to continue providing.

"Mari and Mark very kindly co-organised the event alongside the trust, ensuring it was our most popular swim to date."

As reported, the charity needs to raise £600,000 by the end of this month to save its services.

Read more: Charity in crisis — less than two months to raise £600,000 and save Wessex Cancer Trust

To find out more, or to donate to the appeal, visit www.wessexcancer.org.uk/