Daring Brits take plunge on Christmas day for festive semi-naked icy swim

Hundreds of daring swimmers have braved freezing cold water for a festive dip on Christmas Day. In a tradition more than 50 years old, brave bathers bared the flesh for an icy dip in Blackroot Pool in the Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands.

Temperatures of 10 degrees didn’t deter daring divers – many dressed in Santa hats – from jumping in the water this morning. Many were sporting colourful swim wear and one man was even pictured in a mankini.

While blankets and warm clothes are a must for post dip safety, it is the fancy dress that catches the eye, as people pile into the water in their festive get ups.

In London, the Serpentine Swimming Club hosted its annual Christmas morning race for the Peter Pan cup. The race, which takes place in Hyde Park, has been held every year since 1864.

Thousands also stripped off in Porthcawl, Wales for the traditional Christmas Swim, one of many being held around the UK. Other Christmas Day dips took place around the country, including Guernsey, Exmouth and Felixstowe. The swims often raise money for charities while giving the chance for people to have a bit of fun on Christmas.

Organisers The Outdoor Swimming Society said: “Many of the festive swims listed here are important local traditions, kept alive for 30, 50 or even 100+ years.

“What started as a crazy bet or dare are now seasonal favourites which entertain hundreds of spectators and raise thousands of pounds for local charities.”