Eleven people braved the frigid waters off Pemaquid Beach to participate in the annual New Year’s Day Polar Bear Dip, a fundraiser for local charities.
Stuart Mason described the water as “mighty cold, but exhilarating.”
Mason lives next to the beach and operates the beach snack bar during the season. He said he has attended the Polar Bear Dip for several years running, but this was his first time in the water.
“I think I’m going to go home and make a hot soup,” he said.
Bristol resident Phil Futon was the last one out of the water, although he did not linger long after the others got out.
Fitton said he has always been the last one out since he began participating in the event four years ago. The water was colder this year than last year, he said.
Fitton and Mason were pleased with the turnout, saying more people participated than the previous year.
This year’s dip raised money for the Lincoln County Animal Shelter.
Bristol Fire and Rescue volunteers were on hand to assist if necessary, although no medical issues were reported.
