Taking a sea plunge on Christmas Day - are you in our Days Gone by gallery?

Christmas morning swim at Clacton in 1995 (Image: Archant)

Most people might like to stay in the warm over the festive period - but each year some hardy souls brave the cold waves.

Christmas swimmers in Felixstowe get ready to take the plunge in aid of the Swimming Pool Association in 1968 (Image: Archant)

Christmas morning swims are traditionally held at various places along the Suffolk and Essex coast, raising money for good causes.

A Christmas morning swim at Clacton in 1998 (Image: Archant)

As with so many other events in 2020, this year it's all very different due to the coronavirus restrictions. Planned swims have had to be cancelled, including St Elizabeth Hospice's annual dip at Felixstowe - but there are plans for an Easter sea plunge instead.

Swimmers taking the plunge on Christmas Day at Clacton in 1999 (Image: Archant)

But today we are looking back at swims held in the 1960s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s, at Felixstowe, Clacton and Dovercourt.

A fancy dress Christmas swim in the North Sea off Dovercourt in December 1980 (Image: Archant)

Some photos show well wrapped-up supporters cheering on those with the courage to join in the annual dip.

Braving the cold North Sea at Clacton for the annual Christmas morning swim in 2007. (Image: Archant)

If these photos bring back memories, email judy.rimmer@archant.co.uk or write to Judy Rimmer, Newsroom, 120 Princes Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1RS.

A sub-aqua Christmas swim at Felixstowe in December 1978 (Image: Archant)

Order photos from our website or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.