Some traditions just have to be maintained - whatever the weather!

Despite 6ft high waves and freezing easterly winds more than 50 hardy souls braved the conditions for their annual Christmas Day dip in the sea at Clacton.

Members and friends of Clacton Swimming Club gathered on the West Beach and made their mad dash into the water.

One or two regular faces decided discretion was the better part of valour and stayed wrapped up against the elements.

But a wide range of ages - from young children right up to grandparents - refused to be put off, and were cheered on by a large crowd.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.