500 people dash into the sea near Plymouth to mark the New Year

Thousands of people descended on Wembury beach near Plymouth to mark the new year and raise money to support tiny babies. The annual swim has been going for more than ten years and draws bigger crowds every year.

Around 500 people - some of them in fancy dress - started the decade in style by dashing into the sea on Wednesday 1 January 2020. The water wasn't freezing but it was certainly very chilly and it was surprising how few of them bothered with wetsuits.

85-year-old Terry Clarke - seen here in the Victorian bathing suit - has been organising the event for more than ten years. Credit: Harvey Hall

The event was founded and organised by 85-year-old Terry Clarke who wore his trademark Victorian bathing suit for the occasion. He took part in the first swim by himself but has since been joined by more and more swimmers.

Terry has raised thousands of pounds over the years and chose this year's charity, the neonatal intensive care unit at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, after hearing about its work during a hospital appointment.

The event also included a fancy dress competition - you've got to love this giant frog! Credit: Harvey Hall