Revellers strip off in -6c conditions during New Year's ice swimming competition in Germany

THE POST-CHRISTMAS and New Year hangovers are still raging in the UK, with Brits feeling worn out and sluggish at the start of 2017.

But in Germany, they're starting the year a little differently.

Especially in the Heidesee lake in Halle, eastern Germany, where revellers yesterday took part in a bizarre – and incredibly brave – tradition of going for a dip in the water.

Participants are all encouraged to take a swim in the lake – despite January bringing often below freezing temperatures.

And this year was no different.

Those who took part this year braved -6C conditions – but still managed to brave a smile for the camera.

And just to show off, a group of men were pictured holding sheets of ice – leaving everyone under no illusions about just how cold it was.

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