RESIDENTS can take to the water on New Year’s Day for a charity swim.

The annual swim, in aid Gosport & Fareham Inshore Rescue Service, will take place on noon on New Year’s Day at Stokes Bay in Lifeboat Lane.

Thousands are also expected to turn up to watch brave locals take the dip. All of the money raised by each swimmer will go to their nominated charity.

GAFIRS community director James Baggott said: “While we encourage participants to raise money for any charity, we especially love those who take to the water in aid of us.

“As an independent lifeboat station we do not receive any funding from the RNLI, so events like our New Year’s Day swim are vital in keeping us afloat all year to save lives in the local waters.

“This year we’ll be keeping an eye out for those swimmers who really go to town on their fancy dress – perhaps some could simply leave it on from the parties the night before!”

Registration opens at 11am on the day with swimmers entering the water at noon.

Parking is limited on the day, so swimmers are advised to walk or use public transport.

For more information, and register, visit gafirs.org.uk/new-years-swim