DOZENS of hardy souls braved near-freezing water as they took part in the annual Lee Dam swim, in Lumbutts, Todmorden yesterday.

Each New Year, swimmers compete to retrieve a wooden cup and this year 36 people, some in fancy dress, plunged into the 4F water..

The event attracted competitors from as far away as Bingley, West Yorkshire, as well as swimmers from Rawtenstall, Accrington, and north Manchester.

Youngest competitor was Chloe Roberts, seven, from Edenfield.

Garry Sutcliffe, 31, of Todmorden won the men's contest, and Trudi Deakin, 39, of Hebden Bridge, the women's class.

Boys and girls classes were won by Conor Darnbrook, 14, from Halifax and Rebecca Sullivan, 12, from Todmorden.

Ann Sutcliffe, of Todmorden Amateur Swimming Club which organised the event said: "Turnout was good despite the heavy rain."