PEOPLE braved cold temperatures at the weekend by swimming in chilly water to raise money for a homelessness charity.

Crisis hosted its annual Icebreaker Challenge event on Saturday at the lake at Bicester Hotel and Spa.

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Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix (Image: Ed Nix)

People could choose between swimming either one width in the outdoor pool or teaming up in a group of four for the relay.

A total of 35 people took part and £3,577 has been raised so far.

The money will help the charity provide services all year round for people experiencing homelessness, such as counselling and healthcare advice, as well as help with long term accommodation and employment training.

Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix

This was the tenth year the event took place, with money raised going to support Crisis’ work to help end homelessness.

For those unable to go along to the event, the DIY Icebreaker Challenge is running until February 28, and will see people set their own challenge like taking an icy shower every day for a month.

Emma Darlington, regional fundraiser for Oxfordshire, said: "The Icebreaker Challenge is a fantastic opportunity for people to take on a challenge, while raising vital funds to help Crisis support people experiencing homelessness. 

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"Homelessness is devastating for a person’s mental and physical health and winter can be the most dangerous time of the year. 2021 has continued to be difficult for us all as we slowly emerge from the pandemic, but it's highlighted how vital a safe and secure home is.  

"We want to thank all those who participated as they've helped us to end homelessness in the Oxfordshire region."

Take a look at the photos our photographer Ed Nix took:

Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix

Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix (Image: Ed Nix)

Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix

Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix

Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix (Image: Ed Nix)

Bicester Advertiser: Icebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed NixIcebreaker Challenge. Pic by Ed Nix

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