Hundreds of spirited swimmers took a perishing plunge into the North Sea to raise funds for charity yesterday.
There were more than a few sore heads in the crowds as the annual Boxing Day Nippy Dipper took place at Aberdeen Beach.
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Each year onlookers gather to watch hardy souls race into the freezing water dressed in a variety of costumes, from festive outfits to bizarre fancy dress.
The event is organised by the Aberdeen Lions and has become a firm favourite in the Christmas calendar.
This year there was good news for the dippers as they arrived at the beachfront to find a crisp winter’s morning, not quite as cold as the year before.
After a countdown about 100 swimmers began racing down into the water, some less eager than others and braved the water – the more daring among the crowds going so far as to dive under.
Declan Duncan, 26, was dressed in a Santa Claus outfit and said it was his third year of taking part.
Mr Duncan had so far raised £200 for his chosen charity in memory of his friend who was killed in a car crash on the A90 Aberdeen to Dundee road, near Forfar, in 2016.
He said: “My friend and I do this every year. We are raising money for Help Harry Help Others. It’s a charity that is close to our hearts because our friend Kieran Innes, who sadly passed away, raised a lot of money for them.”
Meanwhile, William Rae, 31, chose a dress and hat to brave the elements in aid of Me Too, a charity which supports children with additional support needs and other disabilities.
He said: “It’s absolutely brilliant, one of the best things you can do, this is my third year.
“It’s not actually as cold as you would think, I would recommend it.”
Lord Provost Barney Crockett took part for a second time, clad in a Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer outfit.
He said: “It’s quite an experience and it’s a great event, it’s built up over the years and is now an important part of the festive season.
“It’s a fantastic atmosphere, everyone in Aberdeen knows about it and it’s great they come out to support our local charities.”
The provost’s charitable trust is the official beneficiary of the event, however organisers encourage participants to choose an organisation that has some personal meaning to them if they wish.
