Champagne corks popped and mulled wine was poured in Southwold when more than 100 people celebrated Christmas with a North Sea swim.

The annual race into the water, which started on the beach near Gun Hill, raised money for causes including the RNLI, Sole Bay Care fund and Southwold's voluntary help centre.

About 500 people watched the event, organised by Southwold Rotary.

Among those taking part was 11-year-old Grace Tidiman who rang the school bell to start the race and then helped with the bucket collection.

Rotary district governor Nick Cork and assistant governor Pat Webb braved the cold water and together raised cash for End Polio Now, the Rotary International charity of 2014.

Photos by Cathy Ryan.