Hundreds of plucky swimmers braved wintry temperatures to take a Christmas Day plunge in the sea in Dublin.

Large crowds gathered at coastal spots across the city to kick off their festive celebrations with a chilly dip.

John O’Reilly, 79, from Raheny, has been taking part in the charity swim since it began 47 years ago Brian Lawless / PA Brian Lawless / PA / PA

Hardy swimmers dressed wearing Santa hats and festive outfits took part in the Clontarf Yacht & Boat Club’s annual Christmas swim in aid of the RNLI.

Temperatures in parts of Dublin were a cool 11 degrees, but swimmers were treated to a hot toddy and shortbread to help them warm up afterwards.

Large crowds gathered to brave the chilly sea for charity Brian Lawless / PA Brian Lawless / PA / PA

Helen Doogue, a member of the Clontarf RNLI fundraising committee, said the charity swim is now in its 47th year.

Violet, a Maltichon, in fancy dress, watches the brave swimmers from the slipway in Clontarf Brian Lawless / PA Brian Lawless / PA / PA

“Some 47 years ago, a fundraising committee was formed and the swim took off and it has just escalated and expanded over the years,” she told the PA news agency.

“It is a fabulous occasion – a little hot toddy after to warm you up, a donation to the lifeboat and you are good to go.”

Jennifer O’Connor, from Cork, and her brother-in-law, Martin Darrer, take part in the Clontarf Yacht & Boat Club annual Christmas swim Brian Lawless / PA Brian Lawless / PA / PA

Asked if she also braves the cold water, she said: “Not a hope.

“If was in the Maldives, of course, but not here.”