A former Royal Marine commando who is battling cancer has raised more than £25,000 to date after taking part in a cold water challenge across the UK.

Tim Crossin, 59, from Poole, is a regular at the Win the morning, Win the day cold water dips at Branksome Beach every Friday at 7am.

They’ve been organised by Heather Ashley since October 2020 after the initiative was initially set up on social media by Chris Reeves, a Royal Navy Physical Trainer in Gosport.

Groups have subsequently formed across the UK and abroad.

Tim has been diagnosed with cancer four times, the latest in December.

After the second cancer diagnosis he joined Heather’s group and found cold water swimming resulted in positive benefits for both his mental and physical wellbeing.

Before Tim received his latest results, revealing he had cancer for the fourth time, he had decided to do a charity challenge called ‘Cold Dip Commando’.

It involved taking an extreme cold swim in 31 locations around England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in the 31 days of January.

The aim was to raise money and awareness for three good causes; the Royal Marines Charity, Lymphoma Action and Rock 2 Recovery.

At each location Tim invited serving and former military and 999 personnel, swimming clubs and the general public to experience the physical and mental benefits of cold water immersion.

After each cold water dip/swim there were hot wets (drinks) and the opportunity to ‘spin dits’ (talk with old comrades and new friends) with a view to reducing the stigma that surrounds cancer and mental health and wellbeing, particularly with serving and former military personnel.

The challenge started – and ended – on Branksome beach where Tim was joined by members of Heather’s group and also former Royal Marines’ colleagues, many wearing the corps’ famous green beret.

By last night, Tim had raised a magnificent £25,104 from more than a thousand supporters.

The initial target was £10,000.

Tim decided to press ahead with the challenge despite his latest cancer diagnosis in December.

Heather, pictured with Tim and Vicky Anderson, said: “It shows you what strength and grit he’s got to go on and do it still with a smile on his face, caring for people.

“I think it’s incredible”

After completing his challenge, Tim said the two things he was most looking forward were: “A towel and a warm robe!”

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