A mysterious rig which has appeared in Hunterston bay has left locals baffled.

Former Largs Academy teacher George Crawford, who took the picture, asked for details. Peter Ribbeck responded: “It’s a survey rig; they are drilling for core samples, I believe it is something to do with the proposed laying of a new power line.” And the Hunterston sites website, stated: “It’s in preperation for the underground electric cable that will go from Campbeltown to Hunterston(Goldenberry) via Ardneil.

PeelPorts, the owners of Clydeport terminal, put out a notice to Mariners which stated: “Briggs Marine Contractors will be undertaking submarine power cable installation works between the islands of Bute and Cumbrae until Monday 24 March. Operations will be carred out by the vessels Forth Guardsman, Forth Jouster, and Forth Sentinel. Forth Guardsmen will perform cable repair operations using a combination of spud legs near shore and a four point mooring pattern offshore.

“During cable repair operations, Forth Guardsmen will be restricted in the ability to manoevure. It is requested that all vessels operating within this area maintain a safe distance and pass at a minimum speed.”