RELENTLESS rain failed to deter hardy volunteers who took part in a beach clean at a local beauty spot.

Appalling conditions failed to deter a clean-up crew armed with litter pickers, bin bags and waterproofs.

A round 30 people braved the elements on Saturday morning to tidy up Lunderston Bay.

As a result, 27 kilograms of rubbish was cleared - including many cotton buds, over 300 crisp and sweet packets and carrier bags and washed up fishing boat ropes.

Kathleen McMillan, a volunteer and former ranger at Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, said the beach clean not only clears the area but also provides vital evidence which can influence environmental policy.

She said: "It was very wet and the rain was relentless on Saturday so everyone was drenched within minutes.

"But despite the stormy weather, 27 volunteers came along and stayed for one hour so it was the equivalent of 27 hours of litter picking.

"We're so pleased with the turnout as it really does make a difference."

During the litter pick, by Clyde Muirshiel ranger John MacLean, the volunteers collected plenty of rubbish.

Kathleen added: "I think with the stormy weather has churned up the sea bed so anything at the bottom of the sea bed had resurfaced.

"We also found bigger debris washed up by the storms including quite a lot of carrier bags - over 30.

"We've not had that many in a while but I think that has been churned up by the sea.

"We even found a small buoy attached to a bit of rope."

At the end of the litter pick, Kathleen compiled the data which will be sent off to the Marine Conservation Society.

She added: "Data from Lunderston Bay has been collected for the past 20 years which means that they can see how it compares to other years and if anything has increased or decreased.

"The society can then go to the Scottish Government and highlight what needs to be tackled and highlight any dangers.

"The message I want to get out there is not to leave litter behind.

"If the bins are full then take your litter home.