Swimmers raced into Belfast Lough at Helen’s Bay for the annual Christmas Eve dip in the sea.

Battling jellyfish stings, severe chafing, and multiple injuries, the Galway man swam 1,468 kilometres over the course of five months. 

They were taking part in the annual Clontarf Yacht and Boat Club charity Christmas swim in aid of the RNLI.

Among those who braved the elements on the Christmas Eve swim in Helen’s Bay were a couple who first met at the event last year

The annual swim has raised more than €350,000 for local causes since 1984

There was good cheer at the famous bathing spot as punters braved the chilly weather.