2009 (25th Anniversary Swim)

A record 1176 swimmers and thousands of spectators welcomed in the New Year by attending the annual Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim in Pembrokeshire.

This year the swim celebrated its 25th Anniversary and for the landmark ‘Silver Swim’ all participants were asked to dress in silver.

The event was started by celebrity and local zoo owner Anna Ryder-Richardson upon the release of a giant firework. Ms Ryder-Richardson obviously got carried away with the spirit of the event because she took a last minute decision to take the plunge herself.

Fancy dress highlights included a host of astronauts, members of Saundersfoot Junior School dressed as silver stars and ‘Apollo 25’ – a troop of rocketeers complete with 15ft silver rocket and launch pad.

Leading the swimmers into the icy waters was former Wales rugby International Mark Bennett, now the WRU’s Fitness Co-ordinator, who represented the Welsh Rugby team.

The event was covered by BBC Radio Wales and Pembrokeshire Radio.

Saundersfoot Festivities Chairman Martyn Williams said, "Again we have exceeded expectation and have broken all records. Twenty five years on and this event is getting bigger and better with thousands of pounds being raised for charity. The people from Saundersfoot and surrounding areas have come out in force to support this marvellous event".