Early birds invited to dare to bare for Devon hospitals charity this autumn

Women are being dared to bare in aid of their local NHS at a North Devon beach this November.

The ladies-only Topless Swim fundraiser is returning to the historic Tunnels Beaches tidal pool in Ilfracombe on Sunday, November 29 and early-bird entry is now open.

More than 450 women took part in previous events, raising £90,000 for Royal Devon Hospitals Charity (RDHC), formerly known as Over and Above. 

Above: Swimmers wade into the Tunnels Beaches bathing pool during the 2025 event. Credit: Charlotte Turnbull Photography 

Kate Constable, RDHC community fundraiser, said the charity had been completely blown away by how well Topless Swims in 2024 and 2025 had been supported, with women from all over Devon and further afield in the UK taking part. She said she hoped even more women would take the plunge in 2026.

Kate said: “To see so many women from across Devon coming together, having fun and doing something so brilliant for their local NHS is always incredibly special.

“Topless Swim is such a unique event and is suitable for all swimming abilities – you may choose to just dip your toes, have a paddle or take a quick plunge!”

Above: Louise Butcher, centre, the ‘topless runner’ is constantly fundraising and raising awareness for breast cancer. Credit: Charlotte Turnbull Photography

Early bird registration is currently £20, but goes up to £25 after January 31. Tickets include entry to the secluded Tunnels Beaches, a goody bag, and a mug of hot chocolate for participants to warm up with on the beach after their dip.

All participants, staff, volunteers, lifeguards, entertainment and first aiders will be female. The Breast Cancer and Fern Centre cancer wellbeing teams from North Devon District Hospital will also be on hand on the day to offer advice about breast cancer screening and early detection, as well as provide information about the care and support available. 

The sponsored swim with a difference was inspired by North Devon’s ‘Topless Runner’, Louise Butcher, who runs topless to raise awareness of breast cancer screening and promote body positivity following a double mastectomy in 2022.  

Louise, from Braunton, said: “Topless Swim is such a brilliant way to promote body positivity, help power up local NHS cancer services and fly the flag for breast care awareness.

“The atmosphere on the day is always so welcoming and supportive and it’s lovely to hear the laughter and inspiring stories from those who take part.”

READ MORE: Topless swimmers dive in for hospital charity at famous North Devon beach

Above: Participants enjoy a previous Topless Swim event. Credit: Charlotte Turnbull Photography

Kate said more than 50 women had already signed up since registration went live on New Year’s Eve.

She added: “Why not rally friends and family and form a topless team? If you book your place before January 31, there's a £5 early bird discount.

“Your fundraising page will automatically be set up when you register, and we ask that you try to raise a minimum £100 in sponsorship in support of local NHS cancer services.

“The Royal Devon Hospitals Charity team will support you every splash of the way and you’ll find some great fundraising tips to get you started, as well as a downloadable fundraising toolkit on our website.”

To register to take part in Topless Swim, visit www.royaldevoncharity.org.uk/event/topless-swim-2026