On December 7, 1988, an earthquake hit Armenia, killing over 45,000 and reducing many cities into rubble. The world responded with immediate aid to rescue those trapped in ruins and to provide shelter through the winter for survivors.
In Leiston, a group of swimmers took a sponsored swim in the North Sea, off the coast of Aldeburgh. The` swim has now become an annual event, drawing an ever larger circle of new and veteran swimmers, and an increasingly large crowd of supporters .
After the first year, proceeds from the swim were donated to Aid Armenia, a charity that dedicated itself to building a children’s hospital in Vanadzor, a large city that was badly damaged. A sixty-bedded children’s hospital designed to withstand earthquakes has been built with UK donations.
Since then, we’ve gathered each year, previously on Christmas Day, now every year on Boxing Day, at 11am in front of the Moot Hall in Aldeburgh. Do join us for the 23rd annual swim in 2011.
Frequently asked questions:
Where? Aldeburgh, in front of the Moot Hall
When? Boxing Day, 26 December 2011, 11am
Who? You and your friends
Why? To swim or support the swimmers
How long? two minutes!
How many? Normally about 40 swimmers and a couple of hundred supporters
Sponsorship? We will shortly be setting up a ‘justgiving’ page (for which we will put a link on here), or you can do your own thing
Registering in advance? No need – just turn up
Safety? The sea is cold and dangerous on 26 December. Click here for some swim safety tips.
Press? Press are very welcome
Comments? Feel free to add comments below
Contact? send us an email
