An image of one of Bude’s most iconic festive traditions has been nominated for a national award.  

Each year, residents, visitors, and those from surrounding areas flock to the coastal town, donning Christmas hats, beards, elf costumes, and of course their swimsuits as they brace themselves for a chilly dip in the sea. 

Last year’s big day was captured by photographer Chris Gorman, of The Big Ladder Photographer. The image, which sees hundreds of people brave the waves in the name of tradition has now been nominated at this year’s British Photography Awards. 

Chris, who lives in Hampshire, was visiting friends for the festive season when he heard about the Bude swim and thought it could make a good picture. 

Speaking to the Post, Chris explained: “I’ve been taking photographs all my life, which is a long time now! I’ve worked for newspapers all around the world from London to New Zealand.” 

For this shot, which subsequently made its way into some national newspapers on Boxing Day, Chris used a drone.  

Now the image, immortalising one of Cornwall’s most iconic traditions has been nominated at the awards. 

He said: “I was very pleased to be shortlisted in such a high profile photographic competition.”

Votes can be submitted on the British Photography Awards website: www.britishphotographyawards.org/2023-shortlist/drone/christmas-day