South Queensferry's New Year's Day Loony Dook cancelled due to 'safety concerns'

A popular New Year’s Day cold dip has been cancelled for 2027 due to concerns over safety.

The traditional Loony Dook in South Queensferry, which has been running for 40 years, sees participants dress up to raise money for charity as they brave the cold in the Firth of Forth on January 1.

Organiser Tony Pirouet said it would be “irresponsible” to hold this year’s event amid an increase in numbers.

In a statement shared on social media, he said: “I now honestly feel the dook is becoming a safety issue due to its popularity and without safety measures being put in place, ie. road closures, safety fencing and marshalls, I feel it would be totally irresponsible of me and would feel so bad if there were any injuries to anyone.

“I personally did not have any kind of funding whatsoever the past four or five years I have arranged the loony dook.

“It’s been put together from a small team of amazing people and organisations.”

Tony thanked those who have taken part in previous events, as well as RNLI Queensferry, a team of medics, and local businesses.

He confirmed the dook is set to return in 2028.

Tony added: “Time and tide is against us to get everything in place in eight weeks unfortunately for dook 2027. So, we shall take a year out.

“But, that famous saying…I’ll be back.”