Hundreds of swimmers gathered in south-west London on Saturday for the return of the Cold Water Swimming Championships.

The competition returned to Tooting Bec Lido for the first time since before the Covid pandemic.

The South London Swimming Club welcomed entrants from around the world for almost 100 races in the 5.5C (41.9F) water.

Included in the races was a best hat competition, where competitors create their own headpiece and showcase it while swimming breaststroke.

"They make absolutely stunning hats," said event organiser Margy Sullivan.

"They have to swim across in this freezing cold water with their hat on and without getting it wet."

One of the competitors, Vanessa, said she had signed up for a 90m, 30m and a relay race.

"I love the cold water," she said. "I love swimming all year round, especially outside."

She said she enjoyed the sport for its wellbeing and physical benefits, adding: "But mainly it's about the people."

South London Swimming Club president Brian Daly said the benefits of cold water swimming could be felt in water that was 20C (68F) or lower.

"It's warmer in the water today," he said. "It's 4C outside, 5.5C in the water."

"Cold water swimming at these temperatures is dangerous, but you can start cold water swimming and see the benefits even if it's 20C, because your body is 37C.

"At 20C, you begin to feel the benefits of the cold cycling through your body."

Charlie, who was also taking part in the championships, said she began cold water swimming with South London Swimming Club two years ago.

"I'd been going through a sort of crisis at home and last year it was particularly difficult," she said.

"It's really been really helpful for me to come here."

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