It seems that China and the UK share a tradition - taking a freezing dip to see in the New Year.
Swimmers head for the sea in Saundersfoot, Wales Image: Peter Brill |
In China, December 26 heralded a 1200-strong gathering of swimmers at Chaotianmen terminal in Southwest China's Chongqing joined a traditional winter activity.
After 15 to 30 mins of frantic paddling, all 1200 successfully crossed a 900 metre stretch of the Yangtze River. Although the temperature was only 5 degrees, many participants stood around to have pictures taken with their friends and families after their icy river crossing.
Chongqing Winter Swimming Association said it was the first time so many people had joined the traditiona swim and hoped that more and more people will join it in the future.
The tradition of a post-Christmas or New Year swim is also upheld by a number hardy souls across the UK. In London's Hyde Park, swimmers celebrated the warmest year since the event began in 1864 by taking their annual dip in the park's famous Serpentine Lake. Meanwhile, in Pembrokeshire, Wales, swimmers braved the freezing sea in Tenby and Saundersfoot to raise money for charity at traditional New Year swims.