Rough seas and strong winds fail to deter dippers

Hundreds of hardy Island residents have braved cold seas around the Island for the traditional New Year's Day dips. 

Organised events have been held in Castletown, Ramsey, Douglas, Laxey and Peel, with many participants making a fresh start to the year in full fancy dress.

Tens of thousands of pounds have been raised for local good causes, and the bigger events sponsored by Island businesses. 

Although the weather was not cold for the time of year, rough seas and strong winds added to the challenge facing today's dippers.  

The coastguard was consulted on safety grounds before anyone entered the water and first aid volunteers were on hand at each dip. 

Southern dippers completed a round of four separate New Year's Day dashes into the sea in Port St Mary, Gansey and Port Erin, for the 14th year.

Organiser Lenny Conroy says the dippers and their supporters showed what they are made of: