HUNDREDS of hardy swimmers donned costumes and braved chilly conditions to take a plunge at the Gosport New Year's Day swim.

The annual event raises funds for Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service (GAFIRS) and saw costumes including Batman, Superman and Santa Claus take the plunge.

Speaking before the event, GAFIRS chairman Keith Thomas said: “The New Year’s Day swim is a great way for the local community to support the work our volunteers do to keep The Solent and surrounding waters safe.”

Scroll through the gallery above to see the photos.