Topless swim supports hospital charity

Around 250 women braved the chilly waters of Ilfracombe’s Tunnels Beaches on Sunday, taking part in a unique charity swim that aimed to raise funds and promote body positivity.

The Topless Swim, organised by Royal Devon Hospitals Charity (formerly Over and Above), took place at the Victorian tidal pool, which was originally built to offer privacy for female bathers. 

The event, believed to be the first of its kind in North Devon, exceeded all expectations, raising nearly £50,000 in support of breast cancer care at North Devon District Hospital (NDDH).

Alice Hope, community fundraiser for the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, expressed her delight at the overwhelming support.

“We have been absolutely blown away by the support for our first ever Topless Swim and can’t thank everyone enough for being part of this very special event,” she said.

“The atmosphere was incredible, with women from across the country coming together to support each other, enjoy a Sunday morning dip, and have lots of fun."

“The event was filled with so much laughter and inspiring, empowering stories from all the women who took part. We hope everyone made lots of memories that they will cherish forever.”

The event not only promoted body positivity but also raised substantial funds for cancer services at NDDH. 

Half of the money raised will go towards breast cancer care at the hospital, with the other half benefiting the Fern Centre, the hospital’s cancer wellbeing centre.

“We want to thank all the wonderful participants, volunteers, and the first aid and water safety teams for making Topless Swim such a huge success,” Alice added. 

“The event sold out weeks beforehand, and there was a big waiting list of ladies wanting to take part, so we’re already starting to put plans in place for another event next year.”

The Topless Swim was inspired by Louise Butcher, North Devon’s ‘Topless Runner’, who began running topless to promote body positivity following a double mastectomy in 2022. Louise, from Braunton, has been supported by both the NDDH breast care team and the Fern Centre. 

Reflecting on the event, she described it as a historic moment for women.

“As I stood, surrounded by history – past, present, and in the making – I saw positivity, encouragement, kindness, and togetherness,” Louise said.

“In that moment, I was filled with hope that this event could become the beginning of the end of the isolation women feel when they are confronted, alone in the mirror staring at their bodies."

“We are all better surrounded by people who understand and let us be ourselves.”