Hundreds of people across Kent have taken part in the annual Boxing Day Dip.

Those in Dover, Sheppey and Folkestone braved the cold weather for the quirky tradition, with those in Deal having to hold an on-land event due to concerns over water quality.

On Sheppey, swimmers arrived along The Leas in Minster at around 10am.

Organiser Mark Whitton first started it in 2013. As the years have gone on, it has become “bigger and better”.

The event is raising funds for the Sheerness RNLI base, which is celebrating its 200th anniversary.

Spectator Julie McIntosh was one of those watching from dry land.

She said: “It was lovely to see so many people swimming and watching, although I wasn’t brave enough to go in.”

Many spent just a few seconds in the water before quickly turning back around and hobbling out.

Crew members from the RNLI kept a watchful eye on those taking part.

The charity posted a message on social media after attending the event.

It said: “Remember, going for a swim in cold, open water can be exhilarating, but it’s not without risk.

“So if you’re hoping to have a chilly dip today arrange to go with a buddy. Sea swimming is much more fun with someone else, and you can look out for each other.

“It’s also good to tell someone on shore where you are going and when you will be back."

In Dover, more than 260 swimmers braved the English Channel.

The local lifeguard club told participants that fancy dress is optional, however, it is always nice to see a “pack of T-Rex's or male mermaids running down the beach”.

It also thanked volunteers who helped and did a shout-out to Duncan G who completed his 50th official dip.

The event in Deal, which has run since 1981, was set to be cancelled at the beginning of the month.

It was due to the water quality of the town’s coast being downgraded to “poor” following investigations by the Environment Agency.

On Sunday (December 22), it was announced that it would be held on dry land.

People were instead invited to get dunked with ice-cold water from above.

Deal Rotary Club organised a bucket dipping at the entrance to the pier for those who were brave enough to take on the challenge.

Other activities also took place, including a treasure hunt and exercise class.