Brave swimmers braved the icy waters of the River Wharfe in Otley yesterday. Hardy souls from Wharfedale, Aireborough and beyond gathered by the riverside before noon to take part in the ceremonial New Year’s Day dip. Originally run by late lifesaving swimming teacher Joe Town, of Yeadon – who died in 2011 – the annual swim is now named The Joe Town Memorial Swim in his memory and raises funds for charity.