Rescue Boat volunteers have pleaded with members of the public to avoid abusing them as they carry out lifesaving work, after a busy weekend on Loch Lomond.
The scorching summer weather saw the Luss based boat paged and launched four times. Two calls were to assist people who, whilst using inflatable kayaks and paddleboards, struggled due to the strength and direction of the wind.
Another was to help a boat suffering mechanical issues, whilst the team were also called to help a walker near Ardlui who had sustained an ankle injury.
However in a post on social media, volunteers hit out at members of the public for abusing those risking their own lives to help others.
A spokesman for LLRB said: “A spell of good weather brings so many more people to the area and an increased amount of Loch users which usually means we are even busier than normal.
“Particularly this year we have received multiple calls to assist people who have been unable to paddle back to shore due to the wind.
“Please check the weather before setting off and only venture as far as is safe and your ability can cope with.
“We also ask that people note that all our crew are volunteers and in no situation are deserving of abuse from anyone. Particularly when on an active call out.”
Facebook users reacted with disbelief to the volunteers facing abuse.
Mhairi Morris said: “What a team, you guys are incredible and deserve nothing but praise and recognition for your work.”
Damian McHale posted: “It hasn’t been the best weather with the winds this weekend. I was amazed what some people go out on, on that loch. They’re asking for trouble.
“Well done team. It would be great if people could educate themselves a bit more with regards to the type of vessel they use and the skills required.”
The service, entirely manned by volunteers, is a valuable resource on Loch Lomond and the River Leven and has been based at Luss since it was founded in 1977.
Previously treasurer James Macrae told the Lennox that demand has soared as more and more people visit the area.
He said: “The problem is, in 1977, there was probably about 20 percent of traffic compared to now.
“Most of the crew are coming from Jamestown, Balloch, Alexandria, Bonhill and the majority of our shouts happen when the roads are most crowded. On a summer weekend, it’s can be a nightmare.”
