HUNDREDS of people took the plunge into the icy North Sea today as part of an annual Boxing Day dip.

Following the cancellation of the event in Seaton Carew last year, participants were keen to make a return this year.

Despite poor weather conditions, about 200 people took a dip in the sea, raising thousands for charity. 

Read more: Boxing Day dippers plunge into North Sea at Seaton Carew

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The annual event is organised by Hartlepool Round Table and it is estimated about £10,000 was raised. 

Chairman Colm Simpson, who has previously helped with the organisation but took a dip himself for the first time, said: “It was certainly bracing. It was a really good event.

Read more: Seaham Boxing Day dip cancelled due to bad weather

“We’re really pleased with the turnout despite the weather we’ve had and what the sea was looking like. Everyone got in and had a good time.

"It’s raising money for all sorts of good causes and we estimate approximately £10,000 has been raised for charity.

“It’s a fantastic event.”

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

Among the charities to benefit from the dip are the RNLI in Hartlepool and domestic abuse charity Harbour. 

While some people took the water just in swimming costumes, others took the plunge in Christmas jumpers and festive fancy dress.

A dip also took place in Redcar. However, one planned for Seaham was cancelled due to the bad weather, with the Coastguard warning people against going in the sea. 

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

The Northern Echo:

up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated Teesside Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054