Helensburgh Challenger Group, based at Helensburgh Sailing Club, applied to Awards for All Scotland for funding to purchase a new rescue boat.

The group have been running for over 30 years, helping people of all ages and abilities take to the water.

Sailing takes place in three-hulled dinghies offering experienced sailors the opportunity to sail on their own while novices and less experienced sailors can take advantage of the buddy system available.

The Challenger Group has four boats and the skills necessary to get anyone afloat whilst once again being recognised by RYA Sailability for providing accessible shore-based facilities for sailing for individuals with disabilities.

The money was given from Awards for All Scotland, which is supported by Creative Scotland, sportscotland and the Big Lottery Fund.

The funding programme aims to support people to take part in art, sport, heritage and community activities, and projects that promote education, the environment and health in the local community.

Local MSP Jackie Baillie has congratulated the group on their successful application for lottery funding and has written to the group.

She said: “This group does a great job of promoting an active and healthy lifestyle and encouraging local people to get involved in sport by providing opportunities to try out new activities.

“I would encourage local groups to keep on applying and I will do whatever I can to support their application.”