BRAVE swimmers across the Isle of Wight have taken to the sea this Boxing Day to blow out the Christmas cobwebs and raise money for charity.

Crowds of hardy souls turned up at Ventnor seafront this afternoon for the town's annual swim.

A collection was made for the People's Approach to Cancer Help (PATCH) charity.

A Boxing Day dip was also held at Freshwater Bay where a good crowd turned out to brave the December waters.

In Totland Bay, a swim was held to raise money for the FYT community bus service.

There was a swim at Small Hope Beach, Shanklin, with DJ Steppin Out providing music beforehand.

Ryde Inshore Rescue hosted a swim at its Appley boathouse.

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust hosted a swim at Gurnard beach to raise money to support young people with cancer.

If you couldn't make it to any of the swims this Boxing Day, the Wessex Cancer Trust has organised a pirate-themed New Year's Day swim, by The Salix Cafe at Small Hope Beach, Shanklin. Fancy dress is encouraged.