Hardy souls stripped off and braved the chilly waters of the Atlantic on Saturday to raise money for charity.

About 30 people ran into the sea at John Smith's Bay for the first annual "Polar Bear Plunge" in aid of Youth on the Move.

The Elliott Street based-organisation — which offers free services to people aged 18 to 35 — asked those taking part to raise sponsorship to help boost its coffers.

Youth on the Move director Chae Powell, who took part in the ocean dip, said: "It wasn't as cold as I expected. I had done it in the Regiment in January so I knew what to expect. It was comfortable once you got in."

He said the event was a big success, attracting about 100 people to a barbecue afterwards. "We ran out of food," said Mr. Powell. "It's going to be an annual event and we can look forward to it being bigger and better next year.

"It's just to give people something else to do in winter and to reach out to our audience."

He said there were few youth services available on the Island to young people aged above 17 and the charity aimed to plug that gap.

"Our programmes range from assisting people to get driving licences and writing business plans to helping them get finances or prepare a resume."

l To find out more about Youth on the Move call 292-9298 or 537-4030 or visit www.yombermuda.com.