LOCAL sailing and boating clubs and centres are getting ready to welcome people and get them out on the water during their open day events, as part of The Royal Yachting Association's Push The Boat Out campaign.

Running from Saturday, May 13 to Sunday, May 21, there will be lots of chances to get on the water and try your hand at sailing and windsurfing.

Events taking place nearby include:

-Loch Venachar Sailing Club – May, 20, 10am – 4pm.

-Loch Ard Sailing Club – May, 21, 1.30pm – 4pm.

-Loch Lomond Sailing Club – May, 14 and May, 20, 10am – 5pm.

Club development officer at Loch Venachar Sailing Club, Matt Thomas said: "We're excited to have a full day of bookable dinghy, sailability and windsurf sessions on the 20 of May.

"Our Push the Boat Out afternoon last year was really busy so this year we've introduced booking to make sure everyone can enjoy the sailing experience and has plenty of time to find out about our facilities and courses."

Commodore of Loch Ard Sailing Club, Nigel Orr, is looking forward to showing all their club has to offer: "We sail on one of the most beautiful lochs in Scotland, and celebrate our 50th anniversary next year.

"We are delighted to have the chance through PTBO to show more people what fun sailing can be."

Alistair Dickson, RYA director of sport development, commented: "Sailing is such an accessible sport and many people aren’t aware of the opportunities available close to them or how affordable the sport can be.

"Push the Boat Out is all about making that connection. With many of the events free and the rest under £10 they make a fantastic day out."

Push the Boat Out is the perfect time to try out sailing and to get more information about what is happening in and around your local area.

You can be almost certain that you won’t be the only newbie there on the day and that there will be lots of friendly faces to help you out and get you out on the water having fun.

Boats and safety equipment are provided so you just need to bring a towel and wear warm clothes that you don’t mind getting wet.

Scotland has some of the best places in the world to go sailing and with the forecast looking good for the month of May, don’t miss the chance to get outside and make the most of the sunshine.

The local sailing clubs are all aiming to ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy so bring your friends and family along to enjoy all there is on offer both on the shore and on the water.

If you’d like to find out more about how to get out on the water and start your sailing adventure visit during Push The Boat Out visit: www.rya.org.uk/go/PTBO.