While overnight temperatures were warmer than normal, the seas around the UK were still icy enough to make a traditional New Year’s Day swim a chilly prospect for many.
However dozens took the plunge on Saturday morning throughout the North East.
Dippers were seen jumping into the sea at Saltburn, Seaton Carew, Whitley Bay, Tynemouth and Scarborough, among others.
For decades, beaches across region have been filled with people whooping and shivering as they race into the sea over the festive period to raise money for local charities.
The Met Office said temperatures increased overnight to reach 16.5C in some areas of the UK. The average temperature in December and the beginning of January is usually around 7C or 8C, with the warmer weather due to a south-westerly wind making its way across the country.
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