A swarm of people took to Brighton and Hove seafront this morning, December 25, to celebrate Christmas by entering the icy waters.
Dan, 44, who has been attending for six or seven years, went with friends and family.
He said: “It’s a great way to start Christmas Day.
People take the plunge for the Brighton Christmas Day dip 2025 (Image: Richard Lenton)
“We regularly bumped into people from work and sports clubs (Hove Rugby Club), it’s been growing year on year and close to 1,000 people were at Rockwater.
“It was the coldest it’s been for a while but there were plenty of smiles and lots of laughter.”
Richard Lenton said: “I’ve lived down here for 25 years and it’s the first time I’ve been for a Christmas Day swim – there were hundreds of people on Hove beach near Rockwater getting stuck into the Champers and jumping in the sea, even though the waves were a wee bit lively.
“Not a cloud in the sky, but it was bloody cold. I was wiped out by a massive wave that threw me backwards and my swimming shoes came off – never to be seen again.”
Brighton and Hove City Council urged residents to “stay high up on the beach” while visiting the seafront over the Christmas period.
People take the plunge for the Brighton Christmas Day dip 2025 (Image: Richard Lenton)
Councillor Birgit Miller, cabinet member for culture, heritage and tourism, said: “Everyone enjoys a bracing stroll on the promenade over the festive season, but we would urge people to keep away from the groynes, staying on the path or high up on the beach, especially when the sea conditions are rough.
“Make sure little ones stay close and hold their hands when walking on the beaches.
“Keep dogs on leads and don’t let them enter the sea.”
Michael Grier, seafront operations and contract manager, said: “We understand people will be considering a Christmas Day dip this year, but we’d like to remind swimmers and spectators that this is not a council organised event and those taking part should be aware of the risks when entering the water.
“Cold water sea swimming takes skill, stamina and knowledge of the physical dangers and should only be for the very experienced, using suitable wetsuits, in very calm conditions and with friends.
“Even on a calm day, sea currents, unpredictable waves or a sudden change in weather can create life-threatening hazards without warning.”
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