B.C. naturists to hold polar 'bare' swim

Naturists in Surrey, B.C., will be shouting "Happy Nude Year" on January 1 as they take a running leap into frigid waters in nothing but their birthday suits.

It's the fifth year area nudist groups will be holding the skinny-dipping version of the traditional polar bear plunge, in the icy waters of Boundary Bay at the naked-friendly Crescent Rock Beach.

Prizes will be handed out to youngest and oldest competitors, longest swim time, and best festive costume — though organizers note that "less is often more."

The charity event will collect cash donations benefiting the War Amps Playsafe and childhood amputee programs.

Swimmers brave enough for the cold — but too shy to strip — can attend any of several other outdoor swims, including at Centennial Beach in Tsawwassen, Vancouver's English Bay and Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.