THE RNLI’s Helensburgh inshore lifeboat was called out by the coastguard last week to investigate reports that an unmanned catamaran was heading towards Kilcreggan.

The boat was being pusued by a person in a rowing boat.

When the crew arrived on scene on Thursday, June 11 the catamaran had run aground at Portkil. The person in the rowing boat was already there, and went ashore to retrieve the runaway boat.

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Having checked there was no damage the sailor decided to sail the catamaran back.

The lifeboat crew towed the rowing boat to the Royal West of Scotland Amateur Boat Club in Gourock before returning to the lifeboat station.

Howard Morrison, local operations manager for the RNLI in Helensburgh, said: “The continued warm weather and the easing of lockdown has led to an increase in the number of people and activities on the water.

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“We are urging everyone to stay local and take care if you are venturing out on the water.

“Our team of dedicated volunteers is always there to help but, in order to attend a shout, we must break physical social distancing instructions, putting ourselves and our families at risk.

“Please be aware of the inherent risks involved with activities on the water and stay safe.”

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