A RETIRED engineer told how his love of iconic kids TV show Blue Peter inspired him to construct his own kayak - using benches from his old workplace.

Keith Clague, 73, remembered watching the BBC programme when he was 14 and being captivated as its presenters built something to sail in from old bric-a-brac.

His first attempt as a wide-eyed teen sunk without trace, however the desire never left the former engineer, who worked at both Hunterston 'A' and 'B' stations.

He became a member of Castle Craigs canoe club which operates in the summer months out of Largs Yacht Haven, and Auchenharvie Swimming Pool during the winter, and his love of all things nautical drove him to try and build his own kayak from his garage in Skelmorlie's Caskie Drive.

When benches were removed from Hunterston Power Station a few years ago, Keith finally took the plunge.

He explained: "When I heard they were getting rid of the old seats from both stations' locker rooms, I headed down and picked them up in return for a donation to charity.

"The benches were good quality mahogany, so perfect for the project. I also used the ash frame of an old armchair and had some leftover offcuts from a previous project.

"I spent a total of 1,076 hours working on the vessel from my garage, putting it together and making corrections to make sure it was as good as it could be."

The father-of-one logged on to an online kayak forum, where he got some hints and tips on construction, using a combination of wood and fibreglass to finish his masterpiece.

Keith said: "It has taken a lot of patience on my part and plenty tolerance from my wife Dorothy. It has been a three-year project, but I am delighted that the kayak is now seaworthy and I look forward to taking it her out on the Clyde when the better weather arrives."

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