WITH snow still lying on the ground, and thick fog lending a chilly feel to the air, 40 brave souls defied the weather for a New Year's Day jump into the icy waters of Windermere.

"It's not as bad as it looks," and "a good cure for a hangover" were some of the verdicts of the 32 jumpers, and the ten people who went in for a more restrained paddle, following the charity event.

A crowd of several hundred people gathered at the floating piers at Glebe Road in Bowness to watch the jumpers, who included snooker player Tony Knowles.

With at least £2,800 already in the coffers for CancerCare (North Lancashire and South Lakeland), the sponsored event is set to become an annual fixture, and organiser Gill Gardner has already booked a marquee for January 1, 2002.

Bruce Evans was one of the jumpers.

He leapt backwards into the lake in fancy dress, including a kilt and sporran, and a tam-o-shanter with an orange wig beneath.

Before the jump, the 40-year-old, who is employed by South Lakeland District Council as a road sweeper, said: "I read the notice and I thought that's absolutely stupid - I must have a go."

Having raised £320, a delighted Mr Evans emerged from the lake saying: "Roll on next year - it's deluxe."

Licensee of Bowness's Royal Hotel, McGinty's Irish Bar and Circuit Sports Bar, Maria Walker said she was encouraged to take part because other licensees were joining in, although the cold snap had nearly made her change her mind.

Afterwards the 32-year-old said: "It was not as bad as I thought it would be.

I was not thinking about it."

Mrs Walker, who was joined by staff members Dan Blenkharn and Chris Cunningham, hoped to raise around £ 200.

Mark McLoughlin, 40, of Windermere, decided to go in three times.

"It's cold but not as bad as you imagine," he said afterwards.

Mr Walker, who works at Cedar House Special Needs School in Kirkby Lonsdale, said he would take part again.

Gill Gardner was thrilled by the response to the event, which she organised after the Windermere Lions New Year's Day pram race came to an end last year.

With a mountain rescue vehicle and paramedic on hand, plus five lifeguards, Mrs Gardner, who is a swimming teacher at Troutbeck Bridge swimming pool, said she and the other organisers were prepared for any eventuality.