THIRTY-two swimmers aged from 10 to 40 braved the chilly waters at the annual New Year's dip in Lee Dam, Lumbutts, Todmorden.

The plucky plungers, many in fancy dress and cheered on by a massive crowd of about 300 well-wishers, ran into the ice-cold waters of the moorland dam to retrieve a wooden trophy.

The event began in the 1950 as a fund-raiser for the original Todmorden swimming pool and has become a tradition among people prepared to strip off and take the plunge.

Among those to brave the waters was hula hula girl Jane Sutcliffe, a 20-year-old student; Susan McHugh, a red devil complete with horns and trident, a coach at Todmorden Swimming Club; four members of the Shepherd family of Hebden Bridge in a variety of costumes, and a pair of busy bees, Mark Limmer and Kevin Butler, raising money for Cornholme School of which they are both governors.

The junior trophy was won by 14-year-old Tom Marsden of York who was visiting relations in Todmorden, while women's champion was the red devil who was also taking part for the first time.

The men's trophy was grabbed by Robert Ogden, 16, of Hebden Bridge, a student at Calder High School and also a coach at the swimming club.

Back on the banking he said: "It was cold and it was the first time I have taken part, but I really enjoyed it."

The event is organised by Anne and Dave Sutcliffe. Mrs Sutcliffe said: "This millennium event has attracted more swimmers than in recent years. We definitely have a number of new faces here this time."

Afterwards, all the competitors were offered free soup and bread at the nearby Top Brink pub.

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