Topless Swim fundraiser set to make another big splash for hospital charity

Women are being dared to bare again in aid of their local NHS this October.

Royal Devon Hospitals Charity’s (RDHC) ladies-only Topless Swim fundraiser is returning to the historic Tunnels Beaches tidal pool in Ilfracombe on Sunday, October 19.

More than 100 women have already signed up to take part in the sponsored swim with a difference, within days of the event being launched by the charity (formerly known as Over and Above).

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Last year’s event completely sold out and raised almost £50,000 for the hospital charity. It was inspired by North Devon’s ‘Topless Runner’, Louise Butcher, who runs topless to raise awareness of breast cancer screening and promote body positivity following a double mastectomy in 2022. 

Above: Ladies having fun at last year's event. Credit: Charmain Lovett

Julie Whitton, RDHC community fundraiser, said the charity was completely blown away by how well last year’s event was supported, but had plans to make this year’s Topless Swim even bigger and better.

She said: “It’ll be refreshing. It’ll be empowering. It’ll be a brilliant way to promote body positivity, help power up local NHS cancer services and fly the flag for breast care awareness.

“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.”

Above and below: Participants enjoy the Topless Swim at Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe last year. Credit: Charmain Lovett

Registration is £25 and includes entry to the iconic Tunnels Beaches, a goody bag and a warming mug of hot chocolate for participants to enjoy on the beach after their dip.

All participants, staff, volunteers, lifeguards, entertainment and first aiders will be female. The Breast Cancer and Fern Centre cancer wellbeing teams from North Devon District Hospital will also be on hand on the day to offer advice about breast cancer screening and early detection, as well as provide information about the care and support available.

Above: The Topless Swim for the hospitals charity was inspired by ‘topless runner’ and breast cancer survivor Louise Butcher. Credit: Royal Devon Hospitals Charity

Event capacity has been raised from 250 to 350 women and participants will be able to access the tidal pool from the adjoining beach following rock falls at the top of the Ladies’ Beach earlier this year.

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Julie said registration for this year’s event was filling up fast and urged women wanting to take part to sign up as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

“Last year’s event sold out weeks beforehand and there was a big waiting list of ladies wanting to take part,” she said.

“Your fundraising page will automatically be set up when you register, and we ask that you try to raise £100 in sponsorship in support of local NHS cancer services.”

To register to take part in Topless Swim, visit www.royaldevoncharity.org.uk/event/topless-swim-2025