Teignmouth RNLI has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Boxing Day Walk in the Sea due to unfavourable weather conditions and strong easterly winds that remain forecast.

The safety of participants, volunteers, and the public is always the charity’s top priority, and the expected conditions mean it would not be safe for the event to go ahead.

The annual event, which usually sees hundreds of participants take a festive dip in support of RNLI lifesavers, has long been a highlight of the Boxing Day calendar. While organisers understand the disappointment this decision may cause, safety considerations must come first.

Wendy Richards Wood, Fundraising Chair for Teignmouth RNLI, said we are incredibly disappointed to have to cancel this year’s Walk in the Sea, as we know how much the event means to our supporters and the local community. However, with the weather conditions forecast, safety has to remain our absolute priority. We would like to thank everyone for their understanding and continued support.

All participants who registered via Eventbrite will be able to receive a refund. Those who wish to continue supporting the RNLI are encouraged to donate their entry fee via the charity’s JustGiving page, helping to support volunteer lifeboat crews who remain on call 24/7.

Despite the cancellation, RNLI volunteers will be present on Teignmouth seafront on Boxing Day morning to inform members of the public that the event will not be taking place. Many supporters traditionally attend to make a festive donation, and volunteers will still be available to collect donations, with thanks given in advance for the public’s generosity.

The RNLI Gift Shop in Teignmouth will also remain open on Boxing Day, with 2026 diaries and calendars still available to purchase.

Teignmouth RNLI would like to thank everyone who signed up, volunteered, and supported the event, and wishes the local community and visitors a safe and peaceful Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year.