CHILLY swimming has been available in Wiveliscombe over the festive period with the town’s outdoor pool open until January 3.

A traditional New Year’s Day dip will also see swimmers in fancy dress outfits taking to the water in Wivey Pool, followed by some mulled wine.

The 97-year-old pool is one of the oldest in Somerset and is run for the community by a team of volunteers.

Over the Christmas period the pool opened the day after Boxing Day for 40-minute lane swimming sessions between 8 am and 11.45 am each day, except for the fancy dress New Year’s event.

Swimmers were warned the water would only be about 20 to 21 degrees and they might feel more comfortable swimming in a wetsuit.

A spokesperson said: “Please remember it will probably be chilly when you get out and while we will have hot drinks available, you should bring warm clothing/hats and clean shoes to ensure you keep as warm as possible after you swim.”

Wivey Pool has also been used by pupils of Taunton School to build confidence out of season as they train for a relay English Channel swim.

The spokesperson said: “Feeling the cold in a benign and safe environment is also essential preparation for the greater swimming challenges these children have ahead.

“Wivey Pool is a great training venue at all times.

“Their winter lanes session an early opportunity to familiarise swimmers to cooler water temperatures as well as practicing dressing and re-warming drills ready for sea swimming adventures next summer.”