MORE than 200 people plunged into the icy depths of Windermere to take part in a historic open water race.

The Windermere Cross Lake Swim, first organised in 1920, saw people from across the country take on a 1.2km route across the UK's largest lake.

It was won by 14 year old Tom Robinson from Ulverston who finished with a time of 15minutes and 34 seconds - a full two minutes ahead of his nearest challenger.

Event organiser and founder of Chillswim, Colin Hill, 44, said: "Open water swimming is a growing sport in the Lake District and we're seeing more people taking part each year.

"I do quite a few outdoor open water swims and this is the best place in the world.

"One you are in the water you are immersed in nature and it's a great way to get fit."

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Competitors take the ferry out to Wray Castle and then swim back to the Brockholes Centre in a straight line.

Everybody must wear an orange safety float for safety reasons.

The next open water swim will take place in Windermere on Boxing Day.

For more information visit www.chillswim.com.