While some Britons started 2023 nursing a hangover or catching up on sleep after a late night, some were up with the lark and braved the icy waters for a New Year’s Day dip.
A swim, a quick dip or even just a paddle has become tradition for many on January 1.
For decades, beaches across region have been filled with people whooping and shivering as they race into the sea over the festive period to raise money for local charities.
Dippers were seen jumping into the sea at Saltburn, Whitley Bay, Tynemouth and Scarborough, among others.
Protestors in the sea at Saltburn (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
There was also a dip with a difference at Saltburn, as protesters donned their best Ben Houchen masks while holding signs calling for a stop of dredging the river Tees.
With some dressed in suits, many impersonated the Tees Valley mayor as they continue their campaign after thousands of dead sea life continues to wash up along North East shores.
Signs urged the mayor to stop the dredging, with another reading ‘money and fame that’s my game’.
People brave the sea on New Year’s Day in Saltburn (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)
Swimmers in Tynemouth brave the cold (Image: NORTH NEWS)
Whitley Bay seafront was packed on Sunday morning (Image: PA)
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