MORE than 1,000 spectators braved freezing temperatures to cheer on friends and family in a gruelling charity race which saw competitors plunging 30ft into icy water.
Teams of two taking part in the annual Mappleton bridge jump paddled along a stretch of the River Dove in plastic boats, then sprinted along its banks to a bridge before jumping into the water below. They climbed out of the water, the temperature of which was 7C, and dashed across a field to the finish line at the Okeover Arms.
A total of 10 racers took part in the female heat, which started just after 11am, while 36 men battled it out for the crown in the male heat at noon.
The target to raise £1500 was smashed. Money raised at the race, organised by Ashbourne Divers, will be given to the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance. A donation will also be made to the children’s eye department at Derby City General Hospital. For video & pictures click here
If you were there and have any photos please email them to parwich@hotmail.co.uk and we will add them to this post.
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