The Devoted Dippers, a group of five friends from South Wales, will take part in a cold-water dip challenge at Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs in Cardiff on March 28, as part of Cancer Research Wales’ inaugural Dip or Distance campaign.
The challenge invites participants to either take a cold-water dip or swim a distance of their choice, with all funds raised supporting life-saving cancer research.
Philippa Williams, 63, from Penarth, said: “We – the Devoted Dippers, are a small group of friends with similar life experiences who started swimming together a couple of years ago on a freezing cold Boxing Day.
“For me personally it’s an honour to do this in memory of my brother-in-law Berne who passed away within two months of his diagnosis.
“It is also a way to raise funds so that more people like my friend, who was diagnosed early, had an operation and was cancer free within six months can continue to live fulfilling lives.”
Ms Williams also described the group’s fondness for the reservoirs, highlighting the supportive environment and facilities.
She said: “We particularly like our dips at the Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs because we know staff are at hand to remind us of how long we can safely stay in the water for and to cheer us on.”
Another member of the group, Wendy Huins, 57, from Taff’s Well, said the dips offer more than just physical exercise.
She said: “Even on life’s toughest days, stepping into the water brings an overwhelming sense of wellbeing and clarity.
“The boost to my mental health is truly powerful.
“In recent years, I’ve watched too many friends and colleagues battle cancer.
“I lost a university friend in 2024, and last June, a dear colleague and friend of 30 years also lost her fight.”
Adam Fletcher, CEO of Cancer Research Wales, thanked the group and the wider community for their fundraising efforts.
He said: “This is an exciting time for us as a charity as this is the first ever Cancer Research Wales cold-water dip and swimming challenge.”
