A chilly festive fundraiser in Moray has secured a £12,000 donation for three groups.
Concerns were raised about last year’s Boxing Day swim in Burghead going ahead due to additional organising costs.
Once the wrangle was resolved, however, 60 swimmers braved the chill of the Moray Firth to raise cash for local causes as more than 1,000 spectators watched from the quayside.
Now organisers have announced how the money will be divided, with £5,000 donated to Marie Curie and £3,500 to Keiran’s Legacy, which funds defibrillators in memory of Keiran McKandie who was hit by a car while cycling near Elgin in 2016.
A further £3,500 has been donated to the Burghead Sub Aqua Club, which ensures the safety of swimmers at the annual event.
Organisers praised a late donation of £1,500 to allow them to increase the money being donated to Keiran’s Legacy from the initial £2,250 allocated.
After doubts about last year’s event, the committee has confirmed preparations have begun for this year’s swim, which will be the 35th time it has been run.
A statement read: “We always strive to raise as much money as possible while distributing it as fairly as possible based on the information we have at that time.
“Following new information last week we are happy to correct our process thanks to our generous donor.
“Planning for this year’s swim is underway and we will plan for all eventualities within the current pandemic.”
