This one is entitled: We all 'do a Joan'.

Running along the undercliff in the dark dodging crashing waves while the swell thundered underneath I have to admit I wondered whether I would be getting my post-run swim or just an ice leg massage from the ocean. Joined by Pete and Ollie who had made it to the beach early enough for a proper run we chatted as we returned to our cars for our swimming stuff. Quel Horror and Zut Alors - I had forgotten my sheepskin boots! Ollie had also forgotten his swimming shoes. It looked like another day of cold feet beckoned both of us. We met Alex and Joan on the beach and headed out into a chilly westerly, Ollie failing to get his work shirt to hang on the groin wall due to the wind.

Joan was first off to the water. It was clear she was not going in, a smart lady like her does not mess with an angry sea. Pete, however, is either not as bright or infinitely more foolhardy. He made an attempt, getting turned a full 360 degrees in the process. Next to try was Ollie. He made it in but seemed trapped at the point where the waves reached their full height and began crashing down. He also reported a strong undertow. Hildi decided to follow Joan's example, and soon the boys followed. Sitting in the waves we were invigorated but soon grazed by sand and shingle. Exfoliated, Alex tried again, finding a temporary flat spot. It was not to last. One more Joan style bathe from the four of us and it was off to try and get into our clothes.

In keeping with a late January swim, we consumed out of date mince pies for our breakfast, surveying the bombsite that the wind had created out of our changing patch. Off the beach at 8 ready for the day. Hope everyone managed to get the sand out of their crevices and find feeling in their feet before too long. Still missing Sara.

Swimmers: Alex, Pete, Ollie

Bathers: Hildi, Joan

Conditions out: 8ish and cloudy with a steady drizzle settling in

Conditions in: rough