HARDY swimmers leapt into the sea on New Year’s Day to raise money for a much-loved cancer charity.

Members of Christchurch Life Saving Club were joined by supporters of Macmillan Caring Locally for the annual dip at Friar’s Cliff beach.

Most donned wetsuits for the five-minute event but some braved the chilly water in nothing but their swimwear.

Club committee member Daniel Davies was one of those who took part. He said: “This event has been going for about 10 years and we used to just do it for fun before we realised we could help Macmillan too. It wasn’t too bad this year because we’ve had a mild winter so far and the sea hasn’t had the chance to get too cold.

“But it was still pretty cold and miserable when we got out because the weather wasn’t great.”

Jenny Baker added: “The people in their swimwear ran in, dipped under a couple of waves, and ran out again but those in wetsuits were able to stay in the water a bit longer.

“It was bracing to say the least but some people were body surfing for a while.

“When we got out we all enjoyed bacon sandwiches and coffee with all donations for Macmillan.”

The swim took place near the Beach Hut cafe, where a special coffee morning was held on Christmas Day, also to raise money for Macmillan Caring Locally