Biting winds and icy waters didn’t deter charity fundraisers from their annual New Year’s Day dip in the sea at Viking Bay, Broadstairs.

They stripped off to their costumes and plunged into the waves in the sponsored event that is organised by Jill and Kenny Connell who run The Neptune pub in Harbour Street.

They first held the chilly event eight years ago and in the last six years it has raised thousands of pounds for the Children’s Liver Disease Foundation; in 2008 and 2009 money has specifically gone to the Starfish Appeal to help refurbish the Mountbatten ward paediatric liver unit at the Kings College Hospital in London.

The catalyst for the fund-raising began when the Connell's daughter Lily, now 14, needed specialist treatment for liver failure - so far she has had two liver transplants.

This year’s swim was supported by pub regulars, members of Thanet Wanderers Rugby Club and Jill’s uncle Jim Williams, 75, from Deal, who has taken part in all the Neptune plunges.

After braving the waves the swimmers headed back to the pub for a hot toddy, curry and chilli to warm up.