We are a group of good friends who are coming to Bournemouth in the first weekend of March to celebrate a 50th birthday. Instead of marking the milestone quietly, we decided to do something a little different by learning to line dance... laughing our way through new steps, and embracing the joy of doing something new and fun together... even if country music is liked more by some than others!

In the middle of all that celebration, we wanted to use our time together for something bigger than ourselves. So we’re taking a freezing March sea dip on International Women’s Day to raise funds and awareness for survivors of domestic abuse. It felt right to combine friendship, courage, and purpose - the same things that carry women through the hardest moments in life.

This dip is more than a dare, it’s a reminder that when women stand together, incredible things happen. Every donation, big or small, helps provide safety, counselling, refuge, and hope for someone who truly needs it. We'll be facing the elements in support of Refuge, a charity that provides life‑saving support to women and children escaping domestic abuse.

By facing the cold, in the same way we go through life - together side by side - we hope to shine a light on the services that help women escape abuse and start again with dignity and safety.

As we celebrate the 50th birthday, we'll also be celebrating the strength of women everywhere: those who support, uplift, protect, and rebuild each other.

Thank you for supporting us, cheering us on, and helping us turn a joyful weekend into something that can change lives. Donations, however small really can make a difference!