We take a dip into the archives to look at Sidmouth Boxing Day swims from yesteryear.

Sidmouth Herald: Ready to take the plunge in 1986. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesReady to take the plunge in 1986. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Copyright 2002)

There are many ways to combat the effects of Christmas over-indulgence, such as starting a new diet or jumping on the treadmill, but Sidmothians prefer to do things differently.

Every year, since the mid '80s, brave souls have gathered along the seafront, ready to make a dash for the ocean and dip a toe or two in the chilly water.

Fancy-dress costumes are a must and spectators can expect to see superheroes, knights, crocodiles and, of course, a Father Christmas or two with his helpful elves.

The spectacle always draws a crowd, so if you are heading out to The Esplanade this year then be sure to get down to the seafront early in the morning to secure your spot and, above all, have fun.

Sidmouth Herald: Taking the plunge in 1994. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesTaking the plunge in 1994. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Copyright 2002)

You can send us your swim pictures (past and present) by visiting our photo-sharing website at: http://eastdevon.iwitness24.co.uk

Sidmouth Herald: Shaking off the water in 1994. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesShaking off the water in 1994. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Copyright 2002)

Sidmouth Herald: Two swimmers pose for the camera in 2017. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesTwo swimmers pose for the camera in 2017. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Archant)

Sidmouth Herald: Two swimmers pose for the camera in 2017. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesTwo swimmers pose for the camera in 2017. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Archant)

Sidmouth Herald: Two swimmers pose for the camera in 2017. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesTwo swimmers pose for the camera in 2017. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Archant)

Sidmouth Herald: Other side of the lens for former Herald photographer, Simon Horn, during the 2018 swim. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesOther side of the lens for former Herald photographer, Simon Horn, during the 2018 swim. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Archant)

Sidmouth Herald: Other side of the lens for former Herald photographer, Simon Horn, during the 2018 swim. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesOther side of the lens for former Herald photographer, Simon Horn, during the 2018 swim. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Archant)

Sidmouth Herald: Other side of the lens for former Herald photographer, Simon Horn, during the 2018 swim. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archivesOther side of the lens for former Herald photographer, Simon Horn, during the 2018 swim. Picture: Sidmouth Herald archives (Image: Archant)