SCORES of hardy swimmers took a brrrrrracing dip in the sea at Felixstowe to raise funds for charity.

About 30 people took part in the chilly swim – called Operation Smurf – on Sunday, raising about �2,000 for Talking2Minds in the process.

The charity supports serving and ex-service personnel who are suffering from post traumatic stress disorder.

Janet Jarman, who helped to organise the event, said: “It was absolutely brilliant.

“There were a lot of people gathered on the prom to watch and it was an absolutely brilliant atmosphere.

“There was such a buzz, it was just a case of, let’s go for it.”

Operation Smurf took place outside Manning’s Amusements, in Sea Road. Swimmers donned an array of costumes.

Mrs Jarman added: “Our forces put everything on the line when they are serving the country.

“I think the least we can do is give something back for when they come back and they are struggling.”

Organisers of the swim are hoping to put on a similar event next year for the same charity.