BRAVE swimmers are taking a plunge in Harwich on Boxing Day to raise funds for a much-needed family and community centre. 

Fundraisers will take on the chilly waters for a festive dip at 10am on Boxing Day for a fundraiser swim in aid of the Ark Centre in Main Road, Harwich. 

The Ark’s manager, Claire Bridges, was delighted about this special fundraiser, as money is always needed for this community service. 

“It has been rocky for the past few months,” she said. “But we are now on the other side of that. But it is important to keep the funding going.” 

Geoff Smith and Nick May, owner of the Alma Inn in King’s Head Street, run an annual fundraiser swim on Boxing Day to gather money for an important cause. 

This year the event, taking place at Old Harwich Beach near the sailing club, will again support the Ark Centre. 

Mrs Bridges has huge respect for the swimmers joining the group and might even join herself. 

“If we get close to the target of £400 on the JustGiving page, then I might join and go for a swim," she said.

"But otherwise, I will be there cheering them on and with a donation bucket.” 

The main fundraising campaign for the service has been achieved, but more is still needed, according to Mrs Bridges. 

“Going forward we need about £1,000 to £2,000 a month to be able to add to the service.

"We want it to grow and need to keep the momentum going.” 

Anyone interested in supporting the swim can join on Boxing Day or donate online.