News
Wild swimmers head back to Eastbourne for marine charity’s fourth open water event
Marine Conservation Society’s popular fundraiser stays on the south coast
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) says it’s delighted to be returning to Eastbourne to host its fourth Big Sea Swim charity event. The bathing waters off Eastbourne beach have consistently been recognised as excellent by the charity in its Good Beach Guide.
Since the event began in 2012 it’s raised over £12,000 for MCS, the UK’s leading marine charity, ensuring the organisation can continue its work on marine pollution, protection and sustainable seafood.
The Big Sea Swim is open to swimmers of all abilities who like to do their breast stroke and front crawl away from the confines of the swimming pool. Swimmers can register online now for the event on Saturday 11th July. There are two courses – 1km for first time or less experienced swimmers and a 3km swim for those up for a bigger challenge.
Last year over 60 swimmers took part in the event organised by MCS in conjunction with swim event organiser SwimTrek who will be there on the day to ensure the safety of everyone taking part. The event is supported by eco-fashion label, Rapanui, organic beauty experts, Green People, and organic food delivery company, Abel & Cole.
Alisdair Naulls, MCS Recruitment Officer, says the Big Sea Swim is a chance to experience open water swimming in clean seas: “We would love to see even more people take part in the event this year and help raise more funds for our conservation work. Registration is just £25 for the 1km course and £35 for the 3km. This year we’re throwing down a challenge for swimmers to try and get sponsorship too. £50 of sponsorship means MCS can equip 10 people with beach cleaning kit. The three people who raise the most will get a year’s free membership to MCS.”
Mark Burgess from SwimTrek says: “The Big Sea Swim is a great event that we are proud to be involved with. Eastbourne is a fantastic location for a sea swim with its excellent water quality, clean beach and very supportive seafront team. As well as raising awareness of the work MCS does, the event is a fantastic opportunity to experience open water swimming in a fun and safe environment.”
Alisdair Naulls says MCS is delighted that the event gets plenty of local support: “Eastbourne Borough Council are using it as part of their ‘Time 2 Change’ initiative, encouraging people to get active and eat healthily. The Eastbourne Lifeguarding team will be helping out at the event to ensure, along with SwimTrek – themselves a local company, participants’ safety and to make sure the focus remains on enjoying the swim, and raising some funds.”
Places are limited so swimmers are urged to visit www.mcsuk.org/swim now to find out more about the event and book a place.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
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As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
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Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
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For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
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Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
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- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
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Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
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Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
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Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
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Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
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The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
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Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
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