Charities were given the perfect start to 2005 when scores of swimmers took part in New Year dips.

Brave fundraisers plunged into chilly waters around south and west Cumbria and raised vital cash for good causes.

Bowness, Walney and Haverigg were popular venues with people taking to the waters to raise cash for charity.

Barrow Ladies Rugby Team members ran into the sea at Earnse Bay along with members of Hindpool Tigers and Roose Pioneers rugby teams.

Bowness played host to all ages keen to boost the coffers of Derian House Children's Hospice in Lancaster.

Windermere women Cathy Bateman and Siska Dennison were among the people who took part in the fifth New Year's Day dip held at the chilled waters at Bowness.

Members of the South Cumbria Sea Sports Association took part in their dip at the Port Haverigg Lagoon on New Year's Eve.

Furness students learned about the life of an airline cabin crew member during a one-day seminar in 2005.

Organised by Merseyside Travelvocation, the seminar covered the theory and practice of working as an air hostess. It was held at Furness College on Channelside, Barrow.

Tourism lecturer Sue Stewart said: "This has been an enjoyable taster for these students who will be embarking on a Level Two Cabin Crew Course at the college this month. Tourism is one of Britain's biggest growth industries and few can match it for its variety and range of job opportunities.

"A seminar such as this gives students a real insight into the skill and qualities required by employers. It also helps build on work completed in the classroom."

Travel and Tourism student Daniela Coco, 20, said: "I found the day really useful.

"I've always wanted to be a cabin crew member. The seminar showed us what's involved and I'm really looking forward to starting the full course."