Staff from an Irvine bar have been inspired to take part in the upcoming Polar Plunge after hearing about one member’s mum’s battle with cancer.

Employees at Harbour Lights in Irvine are banding together to raise money for Beatson – which provides support to cancer patients and their families – after hearing about staff member Josh Arkison’s mum’s diagnosis.

The team of around 20 employees will kick of the new year by plunging into the sea at Irvine beach on January 1, 2023.

Organiser and staff member Nicola said: “Josh’s mum Tracy was diagnosed with a brain tumour so we’re going to do the Polar Plunge and Beatson was her chosen charity.

“Most of the staff are doing it – myself included – and we’re just trying to get sponsors.

“Josh is a wee gem. I hate the cold, but he asked me to do it with him and I thought ‘oh my god’ - but I said yes.

“The full team are great. They’ve all rallied round and are doing this for Tracy.”

Within a day of starting their JustGiving page the team have managed to raise £115 alongside the £500 they have raised in the bar brining their total at the time of writing to £615.

Organised by the Irvine Coastwatch, groups and individuals from the west of Scotland will be taking part in the fifth Polar Plunge to raise money for a variety of charities.

Donate to the Harbour Lights’ JustGiving fundraiser here: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/harbour-lights-polar-plunge