A Scots swimmer had a dip despite wintry weather by breaking through a pool of ice with an axe and sledgehammer.
Alice Goodridge was determined to get some lengths in where she usually swims at Loch Inch near her home in Newtonmore in the Highlands.
The 33-year-old braved plummeting temperatures and heavy snowfall in a bid to maintain her record of taking a dip every day for a year.
The businesswoman first took the plunge into outdoor swimming after a challenge to cross the English Channel in 2010.
Ms Goodridge said: "At this time of year, one of the biggest challenges is keeping somewhere open to swim.
"It's quite a lot of effort to make the ice channel and ice hole.
"I tend to use a sledgehammer when possible, but the ice is probably eight inches at the moment so you need to use an axe to get through it - the sledgehammer just bounces off despite my best efforts.
"You get a buzz and a high from just being in the cold water for a few minutes.
"I do like it when the ice melts away a bit so I can swim - but I totally love the ice dipping."
On Thursday, she used her tools in Loch Insh to create enough space for her to take a plunge - with her husband Al helping with the heavy work.
Ms Goodridge said lockdown has impacted her work as a swimming teacher and business owner, but she is glad she has been able to continue enjoying a dip outside.
She urged other people to try outdoor swimming, but to first make sure it is safe by contacting someone who is already experienced at swimming in the area.
