Here's one way to make a splash to welcome in the new year - go for a swim in the sea.

Members of the Sheppey Bluetits "wild" swimming club braved the cold on Saturday - New Year's Day - and took the plunge at The Leas, Minster.

But they had great weather for it. The sea was almost as calm as a mill pond and temperatures were around 10C.

All agreed it was "mild" although their youngest swimmer Lily, eight, was not so convinced.

After emerging from the waves she admitted: "It was cold."

Also taking a dip was Major Lynne Clifton of the Sheerness branch of the Salvation Army who drove from her home in Maidstone to take part.

"I always join in when work permits," she said.

More than 20 swimmers - nearly all women - turned up for the event. Others dived in at Queenborough and Sheerness.