The riverside was packed for the dipThe riverside was packed for the dip
The riverside was packed for the dip

Gallery: Swimmers brave the River Wharfe for New Year's Day dip at Wharfemeadows Park in Otley

Around 100 brave swimmers entered the icy waters of the River Wharfe on New Year's Day.

The annual dip at Wharfemeadows Park in Otley also attracts large crowds of spectators.

The event is now held in memory of local swimming teacher Joe Town, who ran it for over 25 years until his death in 2011. Mr Town had learned to swim in the Wharfe as a child.

Although the traditional dip in the old spa baths at White Wells on Ilkley Moor was cancelled, there was an organised swim at Gaddings Dam near Todmorden in aid of a homelessness charity.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.