A record 1,260 swimmers got the new year off to a chilly but exhilarating start as they took the plunge in the annual Saundersfoot dip.

Watched by thousands of spectators, bathers were faced with the challenge of a long sprint to the sea before splashing into the water.

With many in fancy dress including the Simpsons, Little Britain characters, the Jamaican bobsleigh team and butterflies with six-foot wingspans, the dippers served up a superb spectacle to the delighted crowds.

The Saundersfoot New Year's Day Swim is now in its 26th year, and just goes on getting biogger and better, said Martyn Williams, chairman of Saundersfoot Festivities, who organise the event.

"Again we have exceeded expectation have broken all records," he added. "The people from Saundersfoot and surrounding areas have come out in force to support this marvellous event."

Nearly £300,000 has been raised by the swim over the years, and a record £46,166 for 55 charitable and worthy causes was raised last year.

The swim - whose main sponsor is Powells Cottage Holidays - was started by two local celebrities, Anna Ryder Richardson of Manor House Wildlife Park and Casualty actor Charles Dale, along with  the release of a giant firework.

Pre-swim fun on the beach included a mascot race which was won by Folly Farm's Henry Horse, with swimmers and spectators warmed up by an energetic routine from the Llanelli Scarlets cheerleaders, The Red Kites.

Meanwhile, just down the coast at Amroth, a new world record was set as 42 swimmers dressed as Elvis Presley took the plunge to raise money for research into brain cancer.