Are you brave enough to plunge into the sea on Christmas Day? If so, you might spot yourself in this photo gallery.

Ipswich Star: Christmas morning swim at Clacton in 1995Christmas morning swim at Clacton in 1995 (Image: Archant)

Most people might like to stay in the warm over the festive period - but each year some hardy souls brave the cold waves.

Ipswich Star: Christmas swimmers in Felixstowe get ready to take the plunge in aid of the Swimming Pool Association in 1968Christmas swimmers in Felixstowe get ready to take the plunge in aid of the Swimming Pool Association in 1968 (Image: Archant)

Christmas morning swims are traditionally held at various places along the Suffolk and Essex coast, raising money for good causes.

Ipswich Star: A Christmas morning swim at Clacton in 1998A Christmas morning swim at Clacton in 1998 (Image: Archant)

As with so many other events in 2020, this year it's all very different due to the coronavirus restrictions. Planned swims have had to be cancelled, including St Elizabeth Hospice's annual dip at Felixstowe - but there are plans for an Easter sea plunge instead.

Ipswich Star: Swimmers taking the plunge on Christmas Day at Clacton in 1999Swimmers taking the plunge on Christmas Day at Clacton in 1999 (Image: Archant)

But today we are looking back at swims held in the 1960s, 70s, 80s, 90s and 2000s, at Felixstowe, Clacton and Dovercourt.

Ipswich Star: A fancy dress Christmas swim in the North Sea off Dovercourt in December 1980A fancy dress Christmas swim in the North Sea off Dovercourt in December 1980 (Image: Archant)

Some photos show well wrapped-up supporters cheering on those with the courage to join in the annual dip.

Ipswich Star: Braving the cold North Sea at Clacton for the annual Christmas morning swim in 2007.Braving the cold North Sea at Clacton for the annual Christmas morning swim in 2007. (Image: Archant)

If these photos bring back memories, email judy.rimmer@archant.co.uk or write to Judy Rimmer, Newsroom, 120 Princes Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1RS.

Ipswich Star: A sub-aqua Christmas swim at Felixstowe in December 1978A sub-aqua Christmas swim at Felixstowe in December 1978 (Image: Archant)

Order photos from our website or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.