Gosport mayor joins the masses for a parky plunge in the Solent

It WAS bitterly cold on the beach let alone in the water.

But that did not stop almost 300 hardy swimmers taking part in the traditional New Year's Day dip at Stokes Bay.

And it did not put off thousands of spectators either. More than 2,500 - a record number - turned out to cheer on the dippy dippers as they plunged into the water.

In total 262 swimmers - also a record - braved the icy waters of the Solent yesterday and all in the name of charity.

The midday swim, organised by Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (Gafirs), proved to be the biggest yet with dozens of people washing away their New Year's Eve hangovers by swimming in fancy dress.

Steve Hobbs, Gafirs's chairman, said: 'It was incredible - 2009 was our 40th anniversary and to break all the records was fantastic way to see the year out. We normally raise about £1000 for Gafirs and it looks as though we'll beat that this year.'

Gosport mayor Councillor Diane Searle took part for the first time. She said: 'It was freezing, but I managed to stay in for about five minutes.

'It's a wonderful event which raises the profile of Gafirs and the superb work they do,' added Cllr Searle, who was also raising money for three charities.

Mike Yates, 44 from Gosport, his 22-year-old son Ian and two friends, all took the plunge for the Naomi House children's hospice near Winchester.

He said: 'It was my first time. I only lasted for about 90 seconds, but it was a fantastic event with a great atmosphere.'