Christmas Eve Swimmers Brave Icy Waters Amid Cold Alert

Across Britain, hardy swimmers embraced the frigid Christmas Eve waters for a bracing dip, undeterred by a newly issued cold health alert. Temperatures are forecast to drop significantly, potentially reaching minus 5C in some areas, while easterly winds threaten to generate substantial waves on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

The festive tradition saw participants in locations like North Tyneside and Helen's Bay, Northern Ireland, don Santa hats and festive attire. In Helen's Bay, the annual 'Santa Splash' included carol singing and warm-up sessions before participants plunged into Belfast Lough to raise funds for Dementia Northern Ireland and Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow cold health alert for the south west of England, effective from Christmas Day evening through December 27. Additionally, the Met Office forecasts strong winds and large waves along the south coast of England and parts of Wales, potentially disrupting transport and power supplies.