SWIMMERS braved the chilly waters to enjoy, or endure, the annual New Year's dip in Lee Dam, Lambutts, Todmorden.

The plucky plungers, cheered on by a crowd of more than 100 well-wishers, ran into the chilly waters of the moorland dam to retrieve wooden trophies.

The event began in the 1950 as a fund-raiser for the original Todmorden swimming pool and has become a tradition.

The junior trophy was won by 14-year-old Jonathan Lapish, of Todmorden, while women's champion was Jennifer Ogden, of Hebden Bridge, a seasoned participant who celebrated by swimming across the dam for the first time.

The men's trophy was grabbed by Martin Vasey, an instructor at Robin Wood activity centre, Todmorden.

Afterwards, he said: "It was very cold. This is one of those things you talk about in the pub and then someone says 'why don't you do it?'

"At the time it seems a good idea but it's different when you actually hit the water."

Brother and sister David Goggs and Nichola Horsfall, both of Todmorden, who last year dressed up as waiters to take part, went one better this time and dressed as Red Indians complete with their own "canoe".

Blackburn-born Kate Parker, 22, who now lives in Bristol, was persuaded by her uncle Robert Crompton, of Todmorden, to return to her native East Lancashire and take part in the bizarre event.

Brothers William and Michael Singleton, joined sister Kathleen Hardwick, and dressed up as "Ghostbusters" to brave the elements. They were joined by Kathleen's nine-year-old son Christopher who was believed to be the youngest competitor.

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