Topless swimmers dive in for hospital charity at famous North Devon beach

More than 200 women went for a topless swim in Ilfracombe on Sunday morning (October 19) to help raise nearly £40,000 for local NHS cancer services.

The ladies-only event at Tunnels Beaches, held by Royal Devon Hospitals Charity (RDHC), also helped to promote body positivity and breast cancer awareness.

Above: Louise Butcher, centre, was the inspiration behind the annual Topless Swim for the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity. Credit: Charlotte Turnbull Photography

It was the second annual Topless Swim fundraiser held by the charity, formerly known as Over and Above.

This year the swimmers were able to use the tidal pool but had to access the attraction via the ‘Gentlemen’s Beach’ entrance after an unstable cliff meant the public Ladies Beach had to be closed for 2025.

Above: The Topless Swim participants arrive at Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe on a rather inclement morning. Credit: Charlotte Turnbull Photography

Julie Whitton, RHDC community fundraiser, thanked participants for daring to bare in support of their local NHS.

She said: “It was a fabulous morning of female empowerment, togetherness and fundraising.

“The atmosphere was incredible, with so many wonderful women supporting each other, having fun and enjoying a Sunday morning dip with a difference.

“It was lovely to hear so much laughter and so many inspiring stories from those who took part and raised so much money to help enhance local NHS cancer services, including the breast care team at North Devon District Hospital (NDDH) and the Fern Centre, our cancer wellbeing centre, also based at the hospital.

“Huge thanks also to Tunnels Beaches for allowing us to use their beautiful venue again, and to all our amazing event sponsors, supporters and volunteers – we couldn’t have done it without you!”

Above: Daring to bare - ladies enjoy the Topless Swim event: Credit: Charlotte Turnbull Photography

Participants received a goody bag and mug of hot chocolate to warm up after their dip and were also able to hear advice about breast cancer screening and early detection.

The Topless Swim was inspired by North Devon’s ‘Topless Runner’, Louise Butcher, who runs topless to promote body positivity following a double mastectomy in 2022.

Above: Credit: Charlotte Turnball Photography 

Louise, from Braunton, who has been supported by NDDH and the Fern Centre, said she was thrilled to be part of such a positive event that helped women to feel better about their bodies.

“It was very special to see so many ladies proudly showing their breasts, including some who had mastectomy scars,” said Louise.

“It’s really amazing to be part of such an empowering and body-positive event, whatever the insecurity.”

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