Debut divers explore the deep as part of marine conservation initiative

Formed in August 2023, MACCOLL is dedicated to preserving and protecting the marine and coastal environment of Loch Linnhe.

Group members are also working with local, regional, and national experts to formulate a plan of proposed activities.

These activities will reference the area’s rich culture and history, and will include conservation, enhancement, and restoration of local coastal and marine environments, sustainable economic development opportunities, and educational activities.

Among the many instructors present at Saturday’s snorkelling event was South Lochaber councillor and trained diving instructor Sarah Fanet who told us: It was a pleasure to be involved in this event which is part of a bigger community led initiative that brings conservation, heritage and water activities together, to help communities connect with our marine environment.

"Young people in the Highlands want better access to water activities and this low cost initiative open to everyone can achieve just that.

"The Maccoll snorkelling group has been working hard for over a year towards making snorkelling accessible to the wider community, and this event is only a start.

"One must not forget that snorkelling, as other water activities, brings opportunities and benefits like boosting our mental health."