1,500 take part in Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim

Organisers say a record 1,500 swimmers took part in the 50th Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim.

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Organisers say a record 1,500 swimmers took a dip in the sea as part of Porthcawl's Christmas Morning Swim.

The crowds flocked to Sandy Bay beach in fine weather this morning. Credit: Owen Richards / Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim

A further 3,000 spectators are estimated to have watched on.

Swimmers braved the cold water in a range of Christmas fancy dress outfits. Credit: Owen Richards / Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim

The event is marking its 50th anniversary, and raises money for a number of local charities and organisations.

Many swimmers wore fancy dress as they took to the water. Credit: Wales News Service

Huge crowds have turned out for the Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim.

Swimmers braved the cold sea water at Porthcawl. Credit: Wales News Service

The event is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and raising money for local charities and projects.

The event is raising money for a number of charities and local projects. Credit: Wales News Service

More than 1,000 people are expected to brave the cold sea later, as Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim marks its 50th anniversary.

Fancy dress is encouraged for those daring to take part. Credit: Amie Lipley / Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim

Organisers are hoping for a record attendance, at what is now one of the UK's largest festive swims.

Swimmers are due to gather from 10.30am - before the official start at the top of the beach at 11.45am.

Around 1,000 people took part last year - and organisers expect even more today. Credit: Amie Lipley / Porthcawl Christmas Morning Swim

The event is raising money for a series of charities and local projects.