International Women's Day marked by 500 swimmers

A total of 500 wild swimmers took to the sea off Brighton to celebrate International Women's Day.

The free event, which had a waiting list, took place on Brighton beach on Saturday afternoon.

In 2023, the swim attracted about 250 women.

A spokesperson for the event described this year's swim as a "huge success".

The 500 sea swimmers signed up in advance and there was even a waiting list.

Nicky Chisholm, event organiser, said: "It was a fun, sparkly spectacle on Brighton Beach - women sharing stories, united by their love of the sea."

Amanda FitzGerald, who came to join in from Colchester, said: "As a wild water swimmer, I have never been to such an exhilarating, fun and well-supported event.

"The energy was incredible with 500 people enjoying the waves at the same time and it felt so empowering as we stepped out of our comfort zones."

Debbie Stevens said: "I loved celebrating with all these gorgeous women.

"When women unite great things happen."

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