Pictures from Redcar as hundreds take part in Boxing Day Dip 2023

People could be seen wading into freezing North East waters in an effort to raise money for their favourite organisation or charity.

Despite freezing temperatures, the weather was much kinder than last year with sunny conditions for many.

The annual event, which is organised by various branches of the Rotary Club, was held at Hartlepool, Redcar and Saltburn.

As well as more than of 600 people taking part in the actual dip at Redcar, believed to be the largest crowds they have ever had, scores of well-wishers lined the seafront to cheer them on.

At 11am,the dippers gathered along the esplanade, then made their way to the starting line at the top of the beach.

Following music from a piper, hundreds ran into to the bitterly cold sea. 

The event has been running for more than 50 years and as always members of sea rescue teams were on hand in case anyone got into difficulty.

Everyone pays the Rotary Club a registration fee to take part, but dippers are free to raise money for any charity close to their hearts.

Last year Redcar Rotary Club raised £5,000 for a range of local charities through the Boxing Day Dip and are hopeful of beating that target this year.

Cleveland MRT members were helping out at the Rotary Club of Redcar Boxing Day Dip this morning.

A spokesperson said: "Thankfully we had no injuries to deal with but, as is traditional, we provided hot(ish) drinks to the 'dippers'.

"In fact there were so many people this year we ran out of hot chocolate towards the end, so apologies if you were one of the few who missed out. Our 'chef' has been given instructions to cater for more next year."