Swimmers of all ages ignored the plunging temperatures to splash out and celebrate New Year with an icy dip.

More than 100 people gathered on the snowy banks of the River Wharfe at Otley to watch anyone daring or daft enough to take the plunge in the biting water.

The annual spectacle saw ten people - aged 18 to 70 - bravely mark the day with a quick swim in the winter sun, pictured.

Steam could be seen rising from them as one by one they tentatively stepped into the chilly river.

Shivering Lisa Cherry, 18, of Otley, splashed out in a silver swimsuit.

"It's a great hangover cure and you get a real adrenalin rush - I'd definitely recommend it," said the student.

And pensioner Clifford Cawthorne, who has taken the plunge about 20 times, said: "It's so invigorating and a great start to the New Year.

"As you step out of the freezing water you feel really good."

Phil Moore, who makes the trip every year from Newcastle to visit family in Wibsey said it wouldn't be New Year's Day without the swim.

"I first did it 15 years ago and it's just a part of my New Year celebrations," said the 30-year-old salesman.

The brave dippers were rewarded with drinks both warm and strong.

At White Wells Spa Cottage in Ilkley more than 30 revellers braved the moorland three-feet deep pool - which is rarely warmer than six degrees centigrade.

Tenant Mark Hunnebell, who runs the caf with Joanne Everall, said the sunny day contributed to an excellent turn-out.

Among those to brave the icy depths - just the once - was Mike Beresford, of Ilkley.

Wife Jane said: "He's never done it before and his friends have been egging him on to do it - he must be mad."