SWIMMERS braved the cold as they enjoyed Southend's Boxing Day swim to raise money for the RNLI. 

This year’s event was the eighth in an annual tradition.

Courageous participants went to the Southend Estuary to take on the challenge.

Funds raised from the event are going towards the running of Southend RNLI Lifeboat Station.

Members of the HM Coastguard Southend On Sea rescue team were among those who braved the water dip.

Prior to this year’s cold water dip, an RNLI spokesman said: “It costs around £438,000 a day to run the RNLI all of which is generously donated by the public.”

Participants paid a £6 fee while fancy dress was also encouraged, with prizes awarded for the best costumes.

A spokesman for HM Coastguard Southend on Sea said: “Some of our Coastguard Rescue team attended the eighth annual RNLI Southend Lifeboat cold water dip on a lovely clear crisp morning.

“Good fun was had by all, as you can see from the photos, raising money for our local RNLI station.”