Around 3,000 people gathered to watch the 76 swimmers taking part in the 39th race organised by Aberavon Green Stars RFC.

The winner was champion lifesaver Garod Thomas, who completed the course in 15 minutes, 42 seconds. James O'Leary was second for the second consecutive year in a time of 16:29 and Nicky Thomas was third in 16:52.

In the women's race, former winner Kirsty Edwards came home first in 19:22, with Lindsey Southwell runner up in 19:35 and Emily Gleaves third in 21:37.

First in the open veterans' race was 72-year-old David Jones (33:28), first RFC member was prize sponsor Nigel Cuthbertson in 22:53, with Timothy O'Leary second and Anthony O'Callaghan third.

The event's 73-year-old organiser, Bernard Donovan, was first in the closed veterans' category in 35:00, Paul O' Dwyer finished first rugby club player in 23:05 and Matthew Cuss was the first youth player in 28:04.

In the race for employees of sponsor Corus, 2005 winner Mike Rose finished first in 22:20 after a close battle with second-placed Carl George (22:25), followed by Colin Price (23:09), Paul Bruton (23:11) and Paul O' Dwyer.

"The water was a bit cold and choppy, but we were grateful that the rain held off and it was a great evening for participants and spectators," said Bernard Donovan.