Beach-goers warned over entering sea at Christmas

Christmas and new year visitors to Brighton are being warned over entering the sea, and to take extra care when walking on the beach.

Brighton & Hove City Council said walkers should stay on paths at the top of beaches, especially if they are with children or dogs.

A Christmas Day swim has become an informal tradition, but the authority has reiterated this is not an officially-organised event and only the "very experienced" should consider taking part.

It said people attending should take precautions such as checking the weather forecast.

Michael Grier, the council's seafront operations and contract manager, said: "Cold water sea swimming takes skill, stamina and knowledge of the physical dangers and should only be for the very experienced, using suitable wetsuits, in very calm conditions and with friends.

"Even on a calm day, sea currents, unpredictable waves or a sudden change in weather can create life-threatening hazards without warning."

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