Brave swimmers hit the icy seas

People from all over the country are expected at the Whitley Bay dip

Hundreds of people across the north-east of England plunged into icy waters on Boxing Day morning.

The festive dips have become something of a tradition, attracting hardy souls who fling themselves into the waves, often raising thousands for charity.

Over a thousand people took to the waters at Seaburn, and many also took the plunge at Whitley Bay.

And on New Year's Eve a group is due to gather for the annual swim at Hodbarrow Lagoon in Cumbria.

The swim at Seaburn, organised by Sunderland Lions, is one of the most established and supported events, now in its 30th year.

Organisers estimated that over 1,000 bathers took the plunge, raising about £57,000 for charity.

It's mass hysteria that takes them in and hypothermia which brings them out Stuart Kohn, Sunderland Lions

Stuart Kohn was the master of ceremonies for this year's event and was a member of the first group of about 15 swimmers who started the tradition at Seaburn.

He said they organised similar events in the warmer weather, but there was nowhere near the same level of interest.

He said: "This Boxing Day dip has obviously transfixed the Sunderland community.

"It's mass hysteria that takes them in and hypothermia which brings them out."

The swimmers wore fancy dress and there was a parade before the swim with the sight attracting thousands of spectators.

Once the swimmers had been in for their brief dip, they were given hot drinks to warm them up.

North Sea Volunteer Lifeguards held their swim at Whitley Bay, attracting people from all over the country, as well as a lifeguard from South Africa.

Everyone who goes in the water is given a T-shirt

Everyone going into the water wore a T-shirt with the logo 'Cold Turkey', and were also given signed certificates.

On New Year's Eve, South Cumbria Sea Sports Association is due to hold its swim on at Hodbarrow Lagoon.

It is the 21st time the dip has been held, but this will be the first time it is not in the sea. Last year the tide was so far out that bathers became very cold on their way back from the water, so the decision was made to switch it to the lagoon.

The money raised will go towards club funds and the Haverigg Inshore Rescue.

Committee member Keith Clarke said: "It is not the temperature of the water so much as the air temperature when you get out.

"There is always a good atmosphere and we usually have a good crowd.

"Over the 21 years we have raised about £17,000 and we are hoping to take that amount over £18,000."