A KAYAKER who was stranded on an island in the Firth of Clyde amid dark and windy conditions has been rescued.

RNLI volunteers from Largs launched their Atlantic 85 Inshore Lifeboat at around 9pm on Wednesday following reports of a man stranded on Little Cumbrae Island, North Ayrshire.

Rescuers said the kayaker had “luckily” managed to make his way to a small jetty on the east side of the island amid the rough weather conditions.

READ MORE: Labour hold on to seat in Highland Council election

Members of the RNLI had to use night vision goggles and a searchlight to find the stranded man.

Once located the kayaker was safely transported to Largs Yacht Haven by crew members of the R A Wilson.

The Coastguard Rescue team has since advised anybody looking to venture out into the Scottish waters to check the weather forecast before doing so.

Hugh Douglas, Largs Launch Authority, said: “Tonight’s casualty was lucky to have made it to shore in the dark and windy conditions, we would always advise water users to ensure they have checked the weather before venturing out to enjoy our waters and also to have means of contacting the Coastguard if they do get into trouble.

“Thankfully, this call out had a good outcome with the kayaker being returned to the mainland safe and well.”