A GROUP of dedicated fundraisers braved the elements and took part in a cold water dip to support a Ukrainian charity. 

Members of the Southampton Ukrainian Support Group gathered at Goatee Beach in Eling on Saturday morning to enjoy a wild swim. 

The group, made up of mostly wild dip novices, arrived at 10am and donned yellow and blue outfits to represent Ukraine. 

READ MORE: Ukrainian refugees welcomed to Southampton with open arms

They have raised more than £300 for the group which aims to support those who have fled war-torn Ukraine.

Despite the biting cold and pouring rain, the group entered the sea with beaming smiles and a chorus of laughter.

Francis Anne Heather, from Shirley, is a member of the Southampton Ukrainian Support Group.

She organised the wild swim after spending more time taking part in cold water dipping. 

Francis is disabled and uses a walking stick to help stay balanced. 

She said she was worried about trying cold water dipping as she wasn't sure how she would manage on the slippery rocks. 

READ MORE: Ukrainian refugees tell their stories at demonstration

She said: "We decided to do it as a fundraiser after several people from the group took interest in my cold water dips I share on Facebook. 

"I run a mental health group and cold water swimming is incredibly good for your mental health. 

"We decided to go for April 1 as it's April Fool's Day, we thought that was fitting. 

"It's also still quite cold so it's still challenging. 

"So far we have raised £345 for the group. 

"All of this money will go to help continue the support group.

"It's been very muddy and very cold, but everyone has had a good time."

The Southampton Ukrainian Support Group was launched in April last year with a special event welcoming Ukrainian families into the city. 

They are hosting a Eurovision Song Contest party on May 13 at the Edmund Kell Unitarian Church on Bellevue Road. 

The event is free but party-goers must have a ticket. 

They will be hosting a raffle to raise funds for the group.