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.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article