A Tayside adventurer has been reunited with a “stolen” kayak used on a mission to Siberia, thanks to The Courier.
Mike Bartle, 53, from Carnoustie, launched a public appeal for information last week after his custom-built 22ft double sea kayak was taken from Westhaven beach.
It has now emerged that the historic vessel, which he paddled on ground-breaking missions to Russia and Greenland, was taken by a local man keen to learn the sport in the mistaken belief it was unwanted.
Mike said he was delighted to have the boat back and has even offered to take the man on kayaking lessons.
He added: “I was contacted on Friday by a gentleman who had seen the article and realised that the kayak he had found on the beach was not discarded.
“He had inquired to ownership at the time as he was very keen to introduce his family to kayaking.
“He was particularly keen to return it and was genuinely apologetic for any misunderstanding or anxiety caused.
“Learning about the kayak’s special history and sentimental ownership led to a discussion, resulting in me offering, when the weather permits, to help him fulfil this aspiration to kayak.”
The green Aleut double sea kayak cost £2,000 when it was specially constructed for missions to Taymyr Peninsula, Siberia, and Cape Farewell, Greenland.
Carnoustie coastguard volunteer Mike was part of the first European missions to both areas in the late 1980s and mid-1990s.
Police Scotland included the “theft” of the kayak in its crime appeals last week after the family reported it missing.
Mike’s wife Gillian, 41, also issued a plea on the Our Carnoustie Facebook page for its safe return.
“Many thanks for The Courier and Police Scotland’s support in helping the safe return of my kayak,” Mike said. “My family and I are thrilled.”