Organisers of this year’s big festive dip are desperate for more volunteers to take the plunge.

Irvine’s Polar Plunge is making a welcomed return on the first day of 2019 and organisers are hoping to entice even more people than ever.

Dippers will be invited down to Irvine Beach in fancy dress at 11am where they will run in to the freezing cold sea to raise money for charity.

Last year more than 135 people ran into the freezing cold Firth of the Clyde with more than 350 spectators.

This year organisers Coastwatch say 70 people have already signed up – but they need more. Coastwatch’s Billy Lamb says dippers are welcome again this year to raise money for any charity of their choice and there will be tea, coffee and hot soup for them after they emerge from the water.

He said: “There was 135 people who took part last year and we raised more than £1,800 for various charities so we are hoping to top that this year.

“We want it to be bigger and better this year. “So far we have had a great response with people signing up for it. but we only have 70 people at the moment and we need more people to brave it.

“This year we are asking for a £5 registration fee. The first 100 to register will receive a Coastwatch Goodie bag containing free meals, MoT’s and lots more from Harbourside traders. Home made soup and tea and coffee will be available for participants.”

If you would like to take part in the Irvine Beach Polar Plunge contact Coastwatch on 01294 271855 or email Coastwatch-irvine@hotmail.co.uk or pop into the Coastwatch Office at Irvine Beach to register.