Around 200 people gritted their teeth and braved winter seas in Sliema on Sunday as they dipped into the water for an annual charity swim.

Participants, many sporting Santa hats, registered themselves for the 20th edition of the Thomas Smith charity swim and handed in their donation to the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation before stripping down to the swimming gear and taking the plunge.

Schools of jellyfish threatened to add an unwanted sting to proceedings, but event organisers worked hard to clear the sea below Independence Gardens in time for the event.

Once the swim was over, participants were awarded with medals handed out personally by President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and offered coffee, whiskey and sandwiches to help them get their vigour back.