SWIMMERS braved temperatures close to freezing this morning as the sun rose across the city.

Despite temperatures of -1C, the group donned their swimming caps and swimwear to take a dip in the water around Brighton Palace Pier.

The group can be seen bobbing up and down in the water and walking along the shore with the tide out.

While the idea of taking the plunge in freezing water might not sound appealing, cold-water swimmers claim to enjoy mental and physical benefits.

Health benefits cited by swimmers include increased metabolism, boosted immune system and a reduction of stress and enhanced mood.

However, such swimming can come with risks - including hypothermia, cold water shock, and chilblains - itchy and uncomfortable red bumps that appear on your skin if you warm up again too quickly.

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