Thousands gather on promenade for Hunstanton’s Christmas Day Swim as 160 brave four-degree waters for West Norfolk charities.

Residents from far and wide flocked to a seaside town to watch and take part in a festive tradition more than half a century old.

Some 2,000 people gathered on the Hunstanton Promenade to watch approximately 160 brave the cold waters and raise money for six different causes on Christmas Day.

With banners, fancy dress and even a few of their pets, people waded into the North Sea, which was recorded at four degrees Celcius.

The event, which dates back to 1954, is organised by Hunstanton and District Round Table 615 and focuses on donating money to charities in the area.

This year, The Norfolk Hospice Tapping House, King’s Lynn Night Shelter, Autism West Norfolk, NCI Brancaster, Hunstanton Primary School and West Norfolk Deaf Association all benefited.

As well as fundraising through the sponsored swim, a competition was held for the best costume which cost £50 per group and £25 per individual – one dressed in a Grinch costume took the top spot and a pair dressed as gift boxes came in close second.

Last year, the event took in nearly £6,000, however this year’s figures will be confirmed early in the new year with a spokesperson for the club saying: “I know we have done well from a quick scan through.”

They added: “We had a really good turnout. Everyone enjoyed themselves.

“The water was a little warmer than previous years at four degrees but it was windy.”

Swimmers were rewarded with a certificate and a free hot soup upon their return from the waters and were encouraged to get home and enjoy their Christmas dinners.

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