HUNDREDS of swimmers braved the cold to take part in the Joe Town Memorial Swim in the River Wharfe in Otley on Sunday.

The event saw hardy souls descend into the River Wharfe at noon on January 1st and swim around 20 metres.

Hundreds more people turned out in Wharfemeadows Park to watch, including families of swimmers, residents and visitors eager to see the New Year's day tradition.

For 25 years the swim was organised by former lifesaving swimming teacher Joe Town. After he died in 2011, it has since become known as the Joe Town Memorial Swim and it has become a big tradition in the town.

All photos by Steve Davey