Hundreds of people flocked to the Sussex coast to take part in an annual New Year’s Day swim.

Swimmers braved the elements and took the plunge for The Big Dip in The Witterings, near Chichester.

Many wore costumes for the event, with some dressed as sharks and lobsters.

Cheers could be heard as hundreds of swimmers ran into the sea at around 11am, followed by screams from some due to the water’s cold temperature.

The annual event raises much-needed funds for the 1st Birdham and Witterings Scout Group to allow it to continue to provide services for young people in the area in 2024.

The Big Dip’s crowdfunder for the Scouts has raised more than £700 so far.

Shelia Brinkworth, who was among those to head to the seafront to watch the event, thanked emergency crews who ensured the event went ahead safely.

She said: “Big shout out to the wonderful emergency services braving the seas and waves to keep the swimmers safe.”

A spokesman for the scout group told The Argus: “We had a very successful event with around 385 dippers and around 2,000 spectators.

“The funds will go towards our new headquarters that we now have planning permission for and should be starting to be built in the next few months.”