A coastguard helicopter and Largs RNLI were launched following reports of a capsized sailing dinghy with two people in the water amid rough sea conditions.

The volunteer crew launched at 1.55pm on Sunday battling a cold Northerly Force 6/7 wind.

Cumbrae and Largs Coastguard were first alerted to the situation.

The casualty vessel was quickly located near Cairnie’s Quay, approximately one mile south of the Boathouse.

On scene the two persons involved, one man and one woman, were found having managed to right the vessel and were now close to shore.

They were both checked out by a lifeboat crewmember and kept under close observation until they had regained the shore.

During this time the Coastguard helicopter had maintained a position overhead and RNLI Troon Lifeboat had launched.

These units were stood down when situation clarified by Largs crew.

The persons involved were experienced and well equipped but had capsized several times and managed to right the craft although it is likely the rough conditions and cold would start to take effect.

Largs lifeboat then returned to station, was refuelled, washed down and rehoused at 3pm.