A RECORD number of hardy swimmers took a bracing dip at Clacton beach for the town’s annual Christmas Day swim.
Hundreds of people took a dip in the North Sea as part of the tradition, which was started by swimmers from Clacton Swimming Club more than 60 years ago.
A large crowd gathered for the dash to the water at 10am.
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Fred Eastman, 79, one of the founders, said: “I first started in 1953 and have only missed it for National Service.
“I really enjoyed it this year. Fortunately the tide was high and it was warmer than usual due to the warmer weather.
“It has to be the biggest crowd yet with maybe 500 people. It’s ever expanding.”
The last pair out of the water were Bill Musero, 34, of Thurrock, and Kelvin Bright, of Clacton.
Kelvin said: “It was quite warm really this year. Once you get in, you get used to it. It’s great fun.”
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