RESIDENTS of Killough in Co Down took to the chilly Irish Sea on Saturday as they seek to secure EU bathing water status for four beaches on the Lecale coast.
More than 500 people joined the 'big swim', which in addition to Killough beach saw bathers take to the sea at Coney Island, Ballyhornan and Kilclief.
Independent councillor Cadugan Enright said it is necessary to photograph groups of bathers to prove to authorities that the four beaches are regularly used by swimmers.
"It was a fantastic turnout with hundreds of bathers showing up and highlighting how these beaches are deserving of Blue Flag status," he said.