RANGERS' coach Ian Durrant was among dozens of people who braved the freezing waters in the Firth Of Clyde as he dived in head first to help raise cash for the Prince And Princess of Wales Hospice in Glasgow.

Around 100 dippers, some in fancy dress, including surfer dudes and chicks, St Trinian's characters and men in luminous pink leggings, jumped into the sea off the Seamill Hydro Hotel, Ayrshire, for the second annual Dash 'n' Splash.

More than 100 people cheered them on, including about 40 Rangers' fans who had special applause for Durrant.

Rangers Charity Foundation has chosen the hospice as its Glasgow charity partner and has promised to raise £100,000 to help towards its Brick by Brick appeal.

The Evening Times has also backed the appeal, which hopes to raise £15million towards the building of a new hospice at Bellahouston Park.

Event organiser Michelle Pagett said she was hopeful Dash 'n' Splash will have raised about £5000.

She said: "They were all running towards the water like something from Braveheart and as soon as their toes were in the water they were squealing. But everyone came out with smiles on their faces.

"The money raised will be critical in making sure our patients make the most of the time they have remaining and for providing support for their families and loved ones."

Yesterday's event was a joint fundraising venture between PPWH and Ayrshire Hospice.

All the funds will go towards enabling the hospices to help terminally-ill patients face their own personal challenges and make the most of the time they have remaining.

matty.sutton@eveningtimes.co.uk