44th New Year’s Day fund-raising swim

The 2016 event will be the 44th of its kind with the swimmers taking the plunge at 12noon sharp.

Organised by Ballymena Spina Bifida Association the swim supports Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.

Last year, 82 hardy souls jumped into the harbour, many adding to the atmosphere by wearing fancy dress, and no doubt this year will see many ‘regulars’ joined by lots of new faces.

Among those hoping to take part will be Jeff Bell who has taken part in all of the past 43 Swims.

Last year, the event attracted not only dozens of swimmers but some 600 spectators.

Over the past four decades and more, the New Year’s Day Sponsored Swim at Carnlough has helped to raise tens of thousands of pounds and the organisers are hopeful that the 2016 event will add considerably to the total.

Anyone wishing to participate in the 2016 event will be made most welcome and if they wish to obtain a sponsorship form they can be obtained from Billy McIlroy 12. Rathlin Drive. Ballymena. or by phoning 02825644326 or 07718809314 or by contacting Myrtle Taylor at Ballymena Business Equipment. 73. Larne Street. Ballymena.