Swimmers in fancy dress braved the elements as part of an annual tradition to raise money for charity.

The New Year’s Day Dip in Ramsgate took place on the beach today after the original event on Wednesday had to be postponed due to strong winds.

A yellow weather warning was put in place by the Met Office as gusts of up to 75mph battered the Kent coast.

While today there was a weather warning for heavy rain, the downpours did not dampen spirits as people took to the water dressed as penguins, crabs and bumble bees.

A fancy dress competition happened at 11.45am before the dip started at midday.

The annual event is held in memory of Joseph Brown - a baby boy from Margate who tragically passed away after being born 14 weeks early in 2012.

It is organised by his parents John Brown and Vicki Boyle, who started the tradition in 2013.

All funds raised will go to Ronald McDonald House Charities which provides free 'home away from home' accommodation to families while their child is in hospital.

The charity supported Joseph and his parents during their time of need and meant the couple could spend precious time with him before he passed away a week later.

After being approached by Joseph's parents, the Queen's Head has hosted the post-dip celebrations every year.

This year £2,850 has been raised through the event’s JustGiving page.

Everyone who took part received a medal for their efforts.