Hundreds of swimmers have taken to the chilly West Bay waters as part of a cherished Boxing Day tradition.

The annual West Bay Wallow - organised by the Bridport Round Table - returned today, Monday, December 26, after a three-year hiatus caused by the pandemic.

Cheered on by onlookers from the piers, the swimmers - many in fancy dress - braved the icy cold waters all whilst raising money for charity.

See our gallery above for all the pictures.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

This year the event saw good weather, and organisers estimate more than 200 took the plunge.

Bridport Round Table Chairman, Dave Cutting said: “We are very happy to have been able to put on the West Bay Wallow again. This year we had an incredible turnout. Good to see people haven't been put off and are out in force embracing the cold.

“The fantastic weather brought more people out than ever. It was good to see so many braving the chill, and we saw lots of happy faces coming out up the slipway. Overall a very successful event."

Organisers say they are still counting the money raised, but are hopeful to have raised more than £1,500 for local causes.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

Mr Cutting added: “We are looking forward to putting the money raised back into the community and alleviating difficulties people are having in this cost-of-living crisis.

“As always it is a pleasure to have the mayor’s support, who very kindly announced the winner of the fancy dress.

“Thank you to those who made this event possible, ADM Event First Aid, Bay Paddle Boards, the West Bay Kayak Club, all the volunteers, swimmers and onlookers. I look forward to seeing everyone again next year.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

Demand to take part was expected to be high after the nearby Charmouth Christmas Day Swim was axed in October.

RNLI volunteers decided they could no longer organise the fancy dress dip in the sea at Charmouth due to the additional requirements needed to ensure the event can run safely.

All pictures by Graham Hunt Photography.