WELLINGTON School's head boy embarked on an open water swimming challenge from Troon to Ayr at the weekend.

Patrick Smith, from Prestwick, who has been swimming competitively since he was nine years old with the South Ayrshire swimming team has already raised £1180 for the Scottish Association of Mental Health. 

The weather took a turn for the worst on Sunday, June 19 but this did not dampen the 17-year-old's spirits who still managed to complete 5km of his 10km challenge.

Speaking about the expedition Patrick's dad Gavin said: "We are all very proud of Patrick for his achievements. Unfortunately the weather was not as nice on Sunday as it had been.

"It was nerve wracking to watch because of the swell of the sea and you could not always see him. But he was followed by a seal who gave him some company."

Patrick's original quest was from Troon's Lady Isle to the Low Green in Ayr but he still managed to reach St Nicholas Golf Course at Prestwick before he was taken ashore which is a little over half way. 

The teen has taken part in fresh water swimming challenges in Perthshire and Stirling.

Not only has he been part of the South Ayrshire swimming team but has also been part of the Scottish and British Championships. 

Gavin continued: "At the end of the day. It's all about safety and to have done something like that in those conditions has been satisfying for him. Patrick hopes to complete the last part of his challenge at citadel swimming pool soon."

The Prestwick lad handed over the cheque to his chosen charity at school on Tuesday, June 21 and hopes to continue his hobby when he attends Edinburgh University to study Chemical Engineering next year.