DOZENS of people are to take a dip in the North Sea in aid of a charity that helps disabled people enjoy sport.

Supporters of A Smile for a Child, based in Barnard Castle, will gather on the chilly seafront at Saltburn, on Sunday, December 29, for a fundraising Santa dip.

The charity ran the event last year when five people took part – this year 52 people have signed up.

Chris Read, from the charity, said the money raised from the event would go to support two-year-old Esmie Lowes, who has battled ill health since her premature birth, and her family.

A number of fundraising events have been organised in recent weeks to support Esmie and her mother, Laura, who also suffers from long-term health problems.

The Santa dip in Saltburn is being supported by youths from a local martial arts team, who will give a display before the volunteers take to the water.

The Smile for a Child Santa dip will take place at 10am on Sunday, starting at The Ship pub.