A long established annual tradition in Fermanagh - the Galloon New Year’s Day Swim at Newtownbutler - saw participants plunge to new depths this year! Forty-five participants braved the conditions and despite Galloon jetty being submerged, they waded out in order to take the annual dip!

Having to walk out into the water “made it tougher”, admitted Damien O’Keefe, who has been taking the plunge for over 20 years. However he mentioned that “people still entered into the spirit” of the event. “It actually was not that cold,” felt Damien.

This year, the popular cross-community initiative was held as a fundraiser for Erne Search and Recovery which has been in attendance every year from Erne Search and Recovery was established. Last year’s swim raised £3,500, and Damien hopes they will raise a similar figure this year.

The activity was initially started by Terry Maguire, who was among this year’s swimmers. Damien O’Keefe, his son Daniel O’Keefe and Damian Johnston are currently the main organisers of the popular venture; Damien acknowledges that previously they helped the main organisers Terry and also John Fitzpatrick.

Damien reported that the 2014 Galloon swim was a great success. “It is a social event as much as anything else,” he added.

He acknowledged that the two pubs take it in turns to supply the soup and sandwiches. Last year it was Mulligan’s turn and this year it was the former Mullarkey’s, now run by Darren Chapman.

A focal point for the Christmas and New Year period, Damien indicated that when people are home for Christmas, the Galloon Swim is a good meeting point. “People look forward to it,” he said.