Venturing into the cold sea at this time of year is not for the faint hearted.

But a mum-of-two is doing just that every day throughout February to raise money for the homeless.

Torsie Morley, who lives a stone's throw from the water's edge in Island Wall, Whitstable, has set herself the chilling charity swimming 'ice-breaker' challenge for Crisis and has already smashed her £1,000 target.

The 41-year-old has endured water temperatures down to 2c, which are actually warmer that the -3c air temperature she experienced recently.

Everyday she dips in for a bracing 500-metre swim and says she has now got so used to the cold water that she dives straight under.

"I used to go to the pool but that was getting harder and harder to juggle with the kids and work, " said Torsie.

"So I started sea swimming in the summer and then about four years ago thought why don't I just keep going through the winter because the beach is right opposite my house.

"There's huge difference between the summer and winter water. But I've just got used to the cold water now that I just dive straight in. And I have to say I find it quite invigorating for mind and body and definitely feel better for it."

While this week's mild weather will be welcome, she still went in when the temperatures were down to -3c earlier this month.

"I was swimming when it was snowing which was a first and quite an experience", said Torsie.

She works with her husband John in their design and building business, Whitstable Nest.

"He thinks I'm bonkers and is not a keen swimmer. But to be fair, he helps make it happen for me with things like looking after the kids and keeping on top of the business," said Torsie.

She says she was inspired to raise money for Crisis after seeing other swimmers she follows on Instagram supporting the charity.

Now her own Just Giving page which has so far raised almost £1,500.

"Crisis does such important work and I've got a warm house to come home to which homeless people out in the cold have not," said Torsie.

To support her effort go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/|Torsie-Morley

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