TV tough guy Ant Middleton was among 15 participants to take part in Haven House's ‘Chilly Dip’ at Hampstead Heath Lido on Sunday 4 February.

The ultimate action hero, famous for fronting SAS: Who Dares Wins, Mutiny and Escape braved the winter chill and dipped into the lido as part of Haven House's first #Team15 challenge event which raised almost £2,000 for the hospice.

Ant was on hand to get everyone fired up for the challenge which involved swimming one length of the pool. The water temperature was a chilly 5 Celsius.  

Along with cheering on each participant Ant completed two lengths of the pool and gave everyone a signed certificate, medal and selfie.

Participants had the opportunity to warm up in the poolside sauna and enjoy hot refreshments.

Ant Middleton said: “I was delighted to take part in the Chilly Dip and help raise funds for Haven House in its 15th birthday year.

“The hospice provides such vital care to children and their families in the local area.

“I was really impressed with the enthusiasm shown by all those who turned up. The water was very cold, but everyone did exceptionally well and I’m glad to be part of #Team15.”

Nathan Ramsden, North London Community Fundraising Executive at Haven House, said: “We are so grateful to Ant Middleton and all of our supporters for taking part in our first #Team 15 challenge event for 2018.

“There was a wonderful atmosphere and Ant was brilliant in getting everyone fired up and into the pool.

“This is the second time we have staged a Chilly Dip in North London and it was great to see so many people raising funds for local life-limited children and their families.

“We hope more people will be encouraged to be part of our #Team 15 and take on a challenge for Haven House in our 15th birthday year.

“Whether you’re a runner, swimmer, cyclist, trekker or adrenaline-seeker, we really do have something for everyone for all fitness levels.”

Be part of our #Team15 and take on a challenge for Haven House in our 15th birthday year.

Whether you’re a runner, swimmer, cyclist, trekker or adrenaline-seeker, we really do have something for everyone, regardless of your level of fitness.