HUNDREDS of swimmers braved the icy cold water to take part in the traditional New Year’s Day dip in Newquay for charity.

More than 500 people donned their swimming costumes to race into Newquay Harbour in aid of Young Lives vs Cancer. Many donned fancy dress for the occasion, which included flamingos and lobsters.

Thousands of spectators gathered to cheer on the brave dippers, which included mayor Cllr Drew Creek.

Andy Cole from Newquay Young Lives vs Cancer Fundraising Group said: “We had a fantastic event. More than 500 took part and there were thousands watching.

“I would like to thank everyone who took part, helped and provided sponsorship. We are looking forward to doing it again in 2027.”

Cllr Creek added: “It was great to start the New Year alongside so much of our community supporting Young Lives vs Cancer. What an exhilarating experience.

“Well done to all those volunteers for organising and supporting, there was lots of money raised for a brilliant cause.”

Mr Cole added: “When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world and their family’s can feel like it’s falling apart.

“They need special treatment because their cancer is different to adults’, they can only be treated in certain hospitals, and they often travel miles and miles to get there.

“The impact of cancer on young lives is far more than medical. Their anxieties are deep. Their education, mental health and social lives suffer. Their future feels very uncertain.

“Young Lives vs Cancer is the only charity in the UK with social workers who dedicate their time to provide tailored psychosocial support to children and young people with cancer, and their families.

“We stop at nothing to make their voices heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time.”

Pictures in the gallery by @thisisnewquay, Bob Quinn and Drew Creek.