Thousands celebrate Christmas in glorious sunshine at beach

As Perth awoke to a hot Christmas morning — with the temperature soaring past 35C by midday — thousands flocked to the beach to cool off and frolick in the waves. West Aussies swarmed Cottesloe Beach on Monday morning equipped with their towels, red and green rashies, Santa hats, cricket sets and snacks to enjoy the surf and perfect their tans. For some, going to the beach on December 25 is a long-held tradition. The Hutton family wake up early every year and waddle down to Cottesloe following a massive Christmas Eve feast and an exciting morning opening presents. “We wake up early and then it’s straight down to the beach,” mum Marani Hutton said. “Without fail, we go to…