Hundreds turn out to Whitley Bay to brave New Year's Day dip in the North Sea

Hundreds of people have turned out to brave the New Year's Day dip in the North Sea.

People aged from eight to into their 60s descended on Whitley Bay for the annual dunk in the chilly waters on Wednesday at 11am.

The crowds, clad in everything from swimwear to fancy dress, screamed as they ran down to the sea which has an estimated temperature of about 5'c at this time of year.

For some, the dip was over in a matter of moments but others put a brave face on to stick it out for longer.

And on the shoreline a mass of spectators watched on from the comfort of their winter coats and woollies.

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