People arrived at Ouaisné Bay wrapped up, but were soon down to just their swimming costumes in aid of end-of-life charity Jersey Hospice Care and Love Thy Neighbour, a Christian organisation supporting people in need.

The annual Ouaisné swim, organised by education specialists The Edwin Group, was one of several around the island.

Love Thy Neighbour volunteer Ruth Corzon said it was a “lovely” occasion and thanked swimmers for their generosity.

Lee Wells, who usually goes to the Havre des Pas Christmas Day swim, said: “Initially it’s very, very cold but you settle down and everyone’s screaming – it’s just great fun.”Angela Mariani agreed it was “absolutely freezing” but “really refreshing”.

“It’s such a lovely thing to do on Christmas Day… it just starts the day off with a bang before we go and eat and drink too much,” she said.

Max Tupper said he nearly pulled out of the swim but soon followed his father into the water.

Tony and Margaret Osmont, who were collecting money for Jersey Hospice Care, said they helped with fundraising for the charity wherever possible.

Mrs Osmont said they wanted to give back because cancer had affected both their lives.