The Ascension New Year was once again inaugurated by a Pier Head Jump into the ocean. A tradition started by Priya and Anjali Sukhtankar in1998 to welcome the new year. This tradition has been enhanced by Mal Moss’s New Year costume, sported for the 2nd year running. The water was clear, warm and inviting with very little swell.
The jump off is a challenge to many, a walk off the edge for a few and the very ‘spe-shial’ ones need a helping hand from behind or side by side. Shari, made it a record by enjoying the scenic view from the sea-ward side of the railings for 30 minutes before taking the plunge. Raxa had Mal’s hand to make the jump for Priya, Anjali and Julia Henshaw, as they were just a little tied up.
Peter Smith, Jonathan Stamp and Mal jumped off the railings with panache. Al Thompson was having so much fun that he lost count of the jumps he made. Richard and Alicia Heath-Hall, Joh Evans, Katy Kettlewell, Dwight Pfonner,Jenny and Paul Roberts, Bernard Petersen and Johnny Hobson made up the 2005 group of Pier Head Jumpers. Paddy and Fin Hobson entertained the crowd and focussed everyone’s attention on the event, as they tried to create hurdles in the water.
No matter where I celebrate New Year, I shall always remember the special bond shared by people inhabiting this little rock. The New Year Jump lightens the mood and strengthens resolve as we leap into 2005, with hope for a kinder, harmonious fulfilling year.
Happy New Year to all.
