More than 200 thrill-seekers took part in the traditional Boxing Day dip in Cromer this morning (Monday).

Eastern Daily Press: The Cromer lifeboat crew supported the Boxing Day fundraiser. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAYThe Cromer lifeboat crew supported the Boxing Day fundraiser. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAY (Image: Archant)

This year's event was organised in memory of Carnival stalwart Tony West, to raise money for Cromer RNLI.

And hundreds of spectators lined the sun-kissed promenade to show their support.

Mr West passed away, aged 54, in September following a two-year battle with cancer. He dressed as an inflatable Father Christmas at last year's dip.

Clive Hedges, chairman of North Norfolk Beach Runners who organise the event, said: 'It has been phenomenal. The last two or three years have blown us away - the crowds have been fantastic and the dippers have been even more fantastic.

Eastern Daily Press: More than 200 thrill-seekers took part in the Boxing Day dip in Cromer, with many more turning out to watch. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAYMore than 200 thrill-seekers took part in the Boxing Day dip in Cromer, with many more turning out to watch. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAY (Image: Archant)

'I've been doing it for about 20 years and it doesn't seem to get any warmer.'

With sea temperatures close to freezing, the day began with a warm-up run along the promenade.

Many of those taking part wore fancy dress.

Mr Hedges said: 'The sun is nice but the wind is cruel. I've heard measurements of about five or six degrees (Celsius) but I try not to think about it.

Eastern Daily Press: More than 200 thrill-seekers took part in the Boxing Day dip in Cromer, with many more turning out to watch. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAYMore than 200 thrill-seekers took part in the Boxing Day dip in Cromer, with many more turning out to watch. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAY (Image: Archant)

'They come from all over the place to take part, it's an attraction - they're mad!'

Last year's event raised just in excess of £2000 for Mesothelioma UK. And it is hoped this year's dip could top that.

Richard Leeds, Cromer Lifeboat Operations Manager, said: 'This is very important, not only are we doing this for the RNLI but it's also for Tony West, who helped us a lot as well. He was a tremendous character for us and for Cromer.

'It's great for the RNLI, we do need money; it's a public charity and we like to see the public here.'

Eastern Daily Press: More than 200 thrill-seekers took part in the Boxing Day dip in Cromer, with many more turning out to watch. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAYMore than 200 thrill-seekers took part in the Boxing Day dip in Cromer, with many more turning out to watch. Picture: ALLY McGILVRAY (Image: Archant)

Dippers of all ages took part in the annual festivities - many for the first time and others promising to return.

Paul Innes, 37, from North Walsham, who was dressed as an oompa loompa, said: 'We did it two years ago dressed up as Baywatch (babes) just for a laugh. The first time is fine, getting out and going back in the second and third time, that's when it stings a bit. But it's all good fun and it's for charity.'

The freezing sea temperatures failed to deter other fundraisers too.

Jade Mockett, 25, from Dereham, said: 'We did it last year and it was cold. But we came back because we enjoyed it and it's a good cause. We do a lot of fun runs throughout the year for charity because we enjoy it but this one is a lot colder.' And she added: 'We might be back for a third year.'

Other Boxing Day dips were held in neighbouring Overstrand, Mundesley and Sea Palling.

Nicola Cage-Brimelow 36, from Norwich, said: 'This is my very first time - I've really no idea why, I've not done anything like this before. I knew it went on every year and it's for charity.'