More than a hundred spectators watched from the banks of the River Wharfe as brave swimmers took a traditional New Year dip.

The chilly waters failed to put off more than 25 swimmers who stripped to their swimming costumes and plunged into the river for a ten-metre paddle. Joe Town, an 85-year-old former life-saver teacher, of Yeadon, who has organised the event for more than a quarter of a century, described this year’s swim as “absolutely brilliant.”

His daughter, Helen, sons Ian and Mark Jackson, granddaughter Emily Drake, 15, and her dad Chris joined in the swim, making it a true family day out.

Many of the swimmers were also raising money for SANDS, a national charity which supports bereaved parents with stillborn babies.

Jane Tesseyman , of Yeadon, said: “I lost my nephew two years ago and Helen (Town) has family members who have lost children as well. We are hoping to raise £1,000 and I think we are well on our way.”

Swimming stalwarts Ronald and Harold Shackleton, who have joined in the event for at least the last ten years, took the New Year’s Day dip again to welcome in 2011.

Ronald Shackleton, 62, said: “We come down because we enjoy it and it’s a tradition.”

Carole Deighton was swimming with grandson James Hobkirk, 15.

Mrs Deighton, 68, said: “It is great when the excitement and adrenaline gets going.”

Crowds on the river bank clapped and cheered as the swimmers – and a dog – completed the chilly challenge.

Joe Town thanked all those who took part and all the supporters who watched from the river bank.

There were more New Year thrill seekers taking a refreshing plunge into White Wells at the top of Ilkley Moor. They took turns in jumping into the 220-year-old 8ft by 6ft bath – the six degrees temperature of its waters stimulates the circulation.

Mark Hunnebell, who runs White Wells on behalf of owners Bradford Council, said 124 people took the plunge this year.

“It was a very good day and everybody seemed to enjoy themselves,” he added.