The Stornoway Coastguard was also scrambled to the incident

Three kayakers were rescued from a Scottish loch after one of them capsized early this morning.

One of the group rang 999 from Loch Fyne on the west coast of Scotland to say they needed help after one of them ended up in the water.

The call went to Belfast Coastguard, which alerted the Tighnabruaich Royal National Lifeboat Institution inshore boat and the Stornoway Coastguard search and rescue helicopter at 6am.

The three kayakers were found near the edge of the sea loch and pulled from the water on to the lifeboat which took them to the shore where an ambulance took them to hospital.

Steve Carson, Belfast Coastguard watch manager said: “We were very concerned for these three kayakers.

“We were able to find them relatively quickly and they have all now been taken to hospital.

“In general, we would like to take this opportunity to give the following safety advice to kayakers: ensure someone at home knows your passage plan including points of arrival and departure, timescale, number in group and other relevant information.

“Check weather forecasts and ensure that your skill levels are appropriate for where you are kayaking.

“Wear a buoyancy aid and check that equipment is functioning properly, that your distress flares are in date and are stowed where you can reach them.”

Mr Carson also said kayaker should carry a VHF marine band radio fitted with Digital Selective Calling if possible. “Learn how to use it and practise with it,” he said. “Call the Coastguard if you get into difficulty, preferably via channel 16 on your radio or if not by calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard.”