BIG hearted Ayrshire paddleboarders are gifting their old wetsuits to help orphaned seals in the area.

Ayrshire Paddle Sports, which runs paddleboard lessons in Irvine and Ardrossan, has asked people they teach to hand in any unwanted or old wetsuits as they offer heat and comfort to baby seal pups.

One of the pups is Nacho, pictured here, and Lynsey from Ayrshire Paddle Sports said: “Nacho is a seal pup who is currently being cared for by the SSPCA and we want to help wee pups like Nacho.

“On a recent lesson with Sheena Violet we got talking about how wetsuits have the same feeling as a mother seal and how they could help pups mimic the interaction they would have naturally.

“We are now collecting old wetsuits so that pups like Nacho can cuddle into them.

“If you have any old wetsuits lying around please get in touch and we can arrange to get them from you to pass on to the SSPCA.”

Since Ayrshire Paddle Sports set up during lockdown, more and more people in North Ayrshire are taking to the sea for a lesson on a board.

Ardrossan’s North Shore is where Lynsey teaches people, from absolute beginners to taking part in social paddleboard events where members head out together in a group.

At times, these social evenings often held at sunset see 20 paddleboarders head out together to enjoy the spectacular views.

Working with the Coastguard, Ayrshire Paddle Sports make sure safety is foremost of each lesson.

Lynsey went on: “The reason we started Ayrshire Paddle Sports was to get people out enjoying the water safely.

“We are having the best time getting to meet new people and getting enthusiasts out on the water.

“Ever since I was a wee girl all I’ve wanted to do is get out on the water and this is a dream come true. and there is a real buzz around the coast.”

Vicki Newall, a Wild Sea Women leader has recently taken up the sport and said: “The feeling on the water was incredible.

“Drifting along the sea being able to peer to bottom of the crystal clear water, we even saw a star fish.

“Looking ahead and above I noticed the birds skimming over the water, took in with awe Arran in her splendour, and gazed at the blue sky and fluffy clouds.”