Brave Brixton swimmers take the plunge for Crisis at Brockwell Lido

Hundreds of courageous swimmers took to the icy waters of Brockwell Lido, Herne Hill, today to raise money for charity.

The event raised more than £9,000 for the homeless charity Crisis, and the event was started by Dulwich comedian Jo Brand.

Even the Brixton Blog joined in the barmy challenge, with co-editor Tim Dickens jumping into the pool – which reached only 4 celsius on the thermometer.

Brand told the Brixton Blog: “Crisis is an absolutely fantastic charity which offers so much to the homeless in London over Christmas. To do an event like this which is such a good laugh, and combine the two is great. Everyone watching it is loving it.”

She added: “This area of south London is slightly barmier and bonkerser than up north London.”

Cllr Clive Bennett and Jo Brand kick off the event

The Mayor of Lambeth, cllr Clive Bennet, said: “This is important for Lambeth because it’s about giving back top the community. People are making a huge effort and some of them are over the moon trying to get themselves out of the water but so thrilled about giving their domation to Crisis at Christmas.”

When asked by the Blog why he didn’t take the plunge himself, Bennet said:  “They said don’t go in because the chains are more valuable than you.”

More photos and report to follow.