Dorset Tea is aiming to bring a ray of sunshine to cold winter days with their latest advertising campaign.

Produced in partnership with Bournemouth creative agency Fridays at Nine, the campaign encourages locals to brave the cold and discover the beauty of the area, celebrating real Dorset residents who relish the winter months.

“Dorset is at the heart of our brand,” said Lauren Forecast, Brand Manager for Dorset Tea.

“That’s why we wanted to showcase both the breath-taking beauty of the country, alongside everyday locals who live life to the fullest, winter and all. These are the people who inspire us to get outside, have an adventure, and then warm up with a comforting cuppa!”

The campaign features iconic locations across the county, including Weymouth Beach and Hardy’s Monument in Dorchester.

Chris Cardew, Founder of Fridays at Nine said “This campaign is a fantastic way to showcase the Dorset Tea brand, our incredible county and the wonderful people that live here.

“We’re proud to be supporting a local business and to be inspiring our local community to pick up a cup of sunshine this winter.”

Returning star Val Hall, a sea swimmer from Portesham, is joined by fellow sea-dipper Anna-Marie Gill from Weymouth. These hardy souls take on Weymouth Bay and Chesil Cove year-round, proving that a winter chill is no match for their love of the ocean.

“Sea swimming has been so integral to my wellbeing”, Val enthuses.

“It’s great to be a champion for it and see it as part of Dorset Tea’s campaign again, hopefully it will inspire others to give it a go. Having Anna Marie by my side this year makes it even better – we always swim together, it’s a social thing.”

Anna-Marie agrees: “It’s all about the community, everyone is so kind and caring. We all look out for each other and it’s a brilliant way to meet new people. Winter dipping is a whole different beast to summer – the adrenaline rush, the crunch of frozen seaweed under your feet… it’s a really unique experience! And afterwards, nothing beats a flask of Dorset Tea and some cake – it’s like someone has turned the radiator on!”

New to the campaign this year is Reshma Raju and her canine companion, Benji. Shooting against the backdrop of Hardy’s Monument in Dorchester, Reshma says: “Dorset’s winter beauty is just breath-taking. Exploring nature and getting exercise with Benji makes me feel invigorated. Being part of the Dorset Tea campaign was incredible, and I’m thrilled we could represent our local brand. That post-walk cuppa is pure bliss!”

Rounding out the crew is cycling enthusiast Greg Weekes from Southbourne. He swears by winter rides: “Hitting the open road on a crisp, sunny day is the perfect escape from the short, dark days. Seeing the frost melt, the vibrant winter colours… it’s unbeatable. And of course, a warming cup of tea along the way makes it even better.”

• www.dorsettea.com

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