Express & Star

Hardy swimmers take Boxing Day charity plunge at Chasewater reservoir

Not content with a dozy Boxing Day in front of the telly, dozens of swimmers took a plunge into the freezing depths of Chasewater in the name of charity.

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The annual Chasewater Boxing Day Charity Dip brought experienced swimmers, keen open water enthusiasts, families and friends alike together to shake off the post-Christmas cobwebs and take on a unique challenge.

Amid the early morning fog which gave Chasewater an eerie feeling, a large crowd of swimmers and supporters gathered at the Chasewater Watersports Centre to prepare themselves mentally and physically for the task ahead, with the water's temperature barely above 5°C (41°F).

Some hardier souls went for traditional swimming costumes
Some hardier souls went for traditional swimming costumes

As the countdown clocked down to zero, the participants made their way into the water, with shrieks and cries piercing the air as skin hit the cold water and some people stayed in for a few seconds, while others swam out as far as buoys visible about 50 metres away.

The event, which was organised by Chase Open Water Swimming, was raising money for Dementia UK, with a lot of the participants on the day saying that they were there to raise funds as they knew people who were suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other degenerative diseases and illnesses.

Santa Claus was even there to shake off the Christmas rust
Santa Claus was even there to shake off the Christmas rust