ANIMAL-LOVERS demonstrated their dedication to the cause by jumping in the freezing cold North Sea yesterday.

The ten New Year's Day revellers who took the dip at Saltburn, east Cleveland, hope to raise up to £600 for abandoned pets.

And they certainly shook the cobwebs away as they jumped in the sea while bemused onlookers cheered.

"It was really good fun to be there and, of course, I would have gone in but I had to look after the dogs - honest!" joked organiser Anne Prosser, of the Saltburn Animal Rescue Association.

"There was quite a crowd who gave a big cheer and it was brilliant to get ten people mad enough to jump in the sea for us. Last year was the first time we did it and there were only two, so it is good see support for our charity growing."

Hardy revellers in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, also braved the icy waters in aid of charity. More than a dozen charged into the sea to raise cash for good causes.