DONEGAL people all over the world are being encouraged to ‘take the plunge’ on New Year’s Day in aid of a special memorial fundraiser.

The first annual New Year’s Day Plunge is in memory of Burtonport woman Gemma Boyle to raise funds for a community counselling service.

Participants are encouraged to take the plunge anywhere – in the sea, shower or a cold bath.

People from all over the world are invited to be creative and importantly, be safe, and to send a picture with the hashtag #gemmaslegacyofhope to be in with the chance of winning a prize.

So far, over €7,600 has been raised and organisers are hopeful of collecting €24,000 from the efforts.

The aim is to help fund an affordable community counselling service for the Rosses and Fintown.

Gemma’s Legacy of Hope is an Association set up to honour the memory of Gemma Boyle, who brought joy and happiness to her family and her community during her lifetime.

Gemma’s Legacy of Hope aims to help shine a light of hope to individuals living and working in this community so that they are supported to find the courage and strength towards a path to improved happiness and fulfilling lives.

This fundraiser aims to facilitate counselling service support in the Rosses and Fintown Primary Care Area.

Anyone taking part in the fundraiser is asked to please research water safety steps and follow all Covid-19 guidelines.