SANTA Claus is not just coming to town - he's even going to brave the marina.

People in Penarth will soon don their best red Santa suits but – rather than sleighs being pulled by reindeer – they will be paddle boarding in Penarth Marina.

The Santa SUP fancy dress RNLI fundraiser raises money for RNLI Penarth Lifeboat Station which was established in 1861 and operates two inshore lifeboats: a B class Atlantic 85 and a D class.

The RNLI was founded in 1824, meaning it will celebrate 200 years in 2024, and 97 per cent of its operational crew across the UK is made up of volunteers.

The Christmas Santa Paddle – hosted by Penarth Marina and SUP South Wales Paddleboarding Club – will take place at Penarth Marina on Saturday, December 9.

Those taking part will meet at 9.30am on the day with an hour-long paddle around the marina (wrapped up warm in fancy dress) at 10am.

Penarth Times: A paddle boarder at last years event

SUP South Wales Paddleboarding Club will be on hand to help – while participants will paddle at their own risk there will be a safety briefing and guidance throughout.

After the paddle finishes at around 11am, people can head to The Deck in Penarth for nibbles and drinks.

A spokesman for Penarth Marina said: “Please join us for this great event and help us raise some valuable funds for the local RNLI Penarth Lifeboat Station.

“All comers are welcome for an hour paddle around the marina then back to the Deck for soup, sandwiches, coffee, and mulled wine.

“Fancy dress is mandatory!”

 

It costs £10 per person to take part – the marina is donating the drinks with proceeds from the event going to the Penarth branch of the RNLI.

People can book a board, paddle and buoyancy aid for an additional £10 if needed. Inflatable paddle boards will be used, and leashes and buoyancy aids must be worn.

Tickets are available online at https://shorturl.at/lIQUV