THE first ever New Year Dook held by Loch Lomond Shores will now bring in spring instead, it's been announced.

The January 2 was postponed because of the wave of Covid-19 cases with the more infectious Omicron variant.

But organisers Loch Lomond Shores said the renamed "Spring Swim" will now take place on March 20 - the day of the spring equinox, when day and night are of equal length.

Money raised from the event will go towards the Loch Lomond Rescue Boat and is open to anyone over the age of 18.

Audrey Calder, from Loch Lomond Shores, said: "We are delighted to host the Spring Swim as we were devastated to have to cancel the planned New Year Dook.

Hopefully a wild swimming event will become part of our annual events calendar – whether it is in January or March.

“Bookings for the ‘New Year Dook’ show that there’s a real appetite for wild swimming so the ‘Spring Swim’ will hopefully bring even more participants to take part for a very worthwhile cause.

“Several months of rigorous planning has gone into this to ensure that it’s both fun and, most importantly, safe for participants – regardless of whether they are keen wild swimmers who want to have a swim or simply some brave novices who just want a quick paddle.

“Having ProTay and Inchbaggers on board, who specialise in race timing and event management and wild swimming on Loch Lomond respectively, is great as they will be bringing their expertise to make sure the Spring Swim is a success for all.

“Loch Lomond is a wonderful place to enjoy wild swimming, but it is important that it is always done safely so we’re proud to host an event that allows people to do just that.”

The Spring Swim will take place on March 20 from 10am. Those already booked to take part will be automatically entered for the new date. For more information or to signn up, visit https://protay.co.uk/springswim.