RECORD numbers have taken part in a festive annual dip in the waters of the Solent.

A brave 478 residents, more than 100 above last year's attendance, welcomed in the New Year yesterday with the swim at Stokes Bay in Gosport.

Many donned fancy dress with costumes including those inspired by science fiction like Dr Who, or by St Trinian's, while others dressed as footballers and clowns. 

Some could only brave the chilly waters for a matters of seconds but others stayed in a full five minutes.

They were raising funds for 42 different charities and a collection bucket for Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS) during the event raised a record-breaking £2,436 alone, more than double last year's collection.

GAFIRS has been organising the fundraiser since 1982.