HUNDREDS of hardy swimmers will brave the chilly waters of the River Forth today in the annual Loony Dook.
A total of 1100 bathers are due to take part in the New Year's Day dip in a bid to raise tens of thousands of pounds for charities across the UK.
The event, which takes place in the shadow of the Forth Rail Bridge, begins at 1.30pm with the Grand Dooker Parade led by a pipe band through South Queensferry before the dookers are due to take to the water.
Councillor Steve Cardownie, festivals and events champion at Edinburgh City Council, said: "It may be the perfect antidote to the night before but I never cease to be amazed by the bravery of the Loony Dookers.
"For those not quite brave enough to take the plunge, there are plenty of vantage points to watch the action and I'd encourage people to come along and show their support."
Paul Bush OBE, chief operating officer for EventScotland, added: "Scotland is the perfect stage for events and the Loony Dook on New Year's Day generates iconic images that are seen the world over.
"This year the event will give the brave among us the chance to get 2013, the Year of Natural Scotland, off to a memorable start."
The Loony Dook first started with a handful of swimmers in 1987 and has grown in popularity every year with thousands having now taken part.
Last year, 1100 people dived or paddled in the chilly waters in a wide variety of costumes.
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