BRAVING the ice cold water, members of Whitmore Bay Surf Lifesaving Club took a refreshing boxing day dip in the sea at Barry Island.

An annual tradition, the boxing day swim is a chance for the group to get together for some fun and to shake off the Christmas cobwebs.

After the freezing cold jaunt into the sea, the group enjoyed hot dogs and hot drinks to warm themselves back up.

Of the groups 120 members, 50 are nippers (aged seven to 12), 30 are juniors (aged 13-18) and the rest are seniors.

Parent and group helper Nia Hopkin said: "The kids all work really hard throughout the year so this is just a bit of fun to get everyone together and get everyone involved."

The club trains its' members in first aid and life saving skills and provides the opportunity to train up to professional lifeguard status.

Whitmore Bay SLSC will be providing lifeguard cover for the annual Barry Island New Years Day Swim.