More than 70 St. Georgians dressed to the nines welcomed sunny skies and warmer temperatures as they joined the Polar Bear Club for their annual dip on New Year's Day.

The club, about 70 people, walked up to Building's Bay and about a dozen swimmers braved swimming in 62 degrees of calm, turquoise sea at about 2 p.m.

They were led by founder and president Beatrice Hayward, who was honoured with the Queen's Certificate and Badge of Honour in 1999 for her community volunteer work with the elderly.

Mrs. Hayward and her family started the club about 1984.

Mrs. Hayward's daughter, Sandra Jennings said: "One year, I think it was about 1984, we had extremely beautiful, warm weather. We were gathered at top rock, across from our home on Sunny Lane and just spontaneously we decided to jump overboard and have a swim! "We hollered and laughed and had a wonderful swim and decided to make it a custom. Over the years many of our neighbours, friends and family, gather at Mom's first and then we parade down the street to Building's Bay and dive in.'' One of the best costumes was worn by Mrs. Hayward, which was a long black skirt with gold fringe around the edges, gold shoes and a generous gold hat with a wide brim.

The most outlandish costume was worn by Carol Bennett, wearing layers of bright orange.

Making a splash: The Polar Bear Club of St. George's take their annual swim in the cool seas of Building's Bay on New Year's Day. The entourage was led by the president and founder, Beatrice Hayward, far right, who wore a black dress trimmed in gold with matching gold shoes and hat.