More than a hundred brave dippers will take the plunge today to help a little girl walk unaided.

This year's Boxing Day Dip in Deal is in aid of Ellice’s Wish to Walk - a £65,000 fundraising campaign led by Amy and Joe Barr, of Magness Road, Deal.

The money is to pay for life-changing selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) surgery and rehabilitation to help their daughter, Ellice, five, who has cerebral palsy, to walk unaided.

Maggie Edwards, of Deal Icebreakers who has organised the annual tradition since 1981, said: “We look forward to welcoming everyone.

“Thank you to everybody who has signed up already. We’re hoping to raise a record amount this year.

“There will be collection buckets for Ellice on the day so please give generously.

“Any volunteers who would like to help can get in touch.”

Mr Barr and his friends will be among those braving the chilly waters. They will be dressed as Disney princesses.

Online registration has now closed but people can still sign up on the day. It costs £10 and participants are advised to arrive about 10am to avoid queues.

Ellice will also be doing her very own dip of a different kind but details are strictly under wraps until the day.

There will be a countdown with competitors running across the pebbles and entering the sea at the north side of Deal Pier at 11am. People are reminded to take a towel and wear shoes.

In addition to Ellice’s appeal, organisers also gave a donation to Deal Hospital and ACE, the Alternative Christmas Experience, who provided a traditional Christmas meal to those on their own.

Items such a tins, packets and cleaning products for the Deal Area Foodbank are also being collected. To donate to the cause, visit the Ellice’s Wish to Walk page or text RHIZ92 £1-£10 to 70070.

To notify the family of a fundraiser for Ellice or to help in any other way, call 07545 843401, 07853 140445 or email amylou2286@hotmail.com.

To volunteer call Maggie Edwards on 07836 669079.