Pictures: Westward Ho! and the Shawsh*t Redemption at annual New Year’s Day dip

Despite dire forecasts of poop with a chance of slurry, hundreds of hardy souls turned out for the annual New Year’s Day dip at Westward Ho!

[Warning: Some profanities in the following pictures!]

People of all ages turned out, many of those in fancy dress ranging from superheroes to festive elves, as well as paying homage to a certain prison movie (!)

The event was organised by Peter Sawyer, but as ever, participants were advised they took part at their own risk.

This year in particular sparked a Facebook debate after South West Water warned beach goers there would be sewage discharges at many of the beaches in North Devon and Torridge due to the recent heavy rain.

Peter had invited people to attend if they wished, but added a serious note by urging those concerned about sewage discharges on local beaches to write to their respective local MPs of Sir Geoffrey Cox for Torridge or Selaine Saxby for North Devon.

Peter said: “A great event as ever and it’s about everyone getting together to start the year Westward Ho! style. Sewage? What sewage on a Blue Flagged beach?

“I do hope a lot write to Sir Geoffrey and Selaine as instructed! It was a brilliant event and brilliant turn out - Bob my five-year-old was awesome as my sidekick and there were smiles all around.”

Local businessman Rob Braddick, owner of The Pier House in Westward Ho! helped with a PA system on the beach, as well as turning out with his own topical tribute – The Shawsh*t Redemption, complete with porcelain toilet, mop and prison uniform.

*** All pictures courtesy of Rob Braddick