GIRVAN Coastal rowers and their skiff recently became involved in a daring, undercover operation on the Ayrshire coast.

But it was nothing for Marine Policing to be concerned about: they were taking part in the latest unloading of loot at Ballantrae Smugglers Festival 2016.

Girvan rowers, disguised in 19th century garb, joined rowers from Carrick and Troon to ferry tobacco, salt, and barrels of liquor from the brig, La Malouine, to waiting villagers on Ballantrae beach.

As the contraband carriers tried to evade the Excisemen in their quest to profit from their valuable haul, the rowers were last seen disappearing north.

The Ballantrae Smugglers were delighted to hear that La Malouine, a twin masted French Brigantine tall ship, had managed to slip unseen into Ballantrae Bay with tea, tobacco, brandy and fine wines from Holland on Friday, August 5.

On a windy and overcast night - just perfect for smuggling - the villagers were ready with their small boats, and their horses and carts to spirit the contraband away through the village to Craigiemains where it was to be stored in preparation for onward transportation inland.

But the Excisemen and the Army had other ideas.

The locals were ambushed shortly after they arrived in Craigiemains but it was the womenfolk of the village who stood up to officials intent on seizing some of the goods for themselves. When flattery and compliments about how handsome the officers were had no effect, weapons were drawn, the officials were soundly beaten, and the women won the day!

Andy McAlpine of the Ballantrae Development Group which organises the Smugglers Festival said:

"In the 18th and 19th centuries, we are told the women of Ballantrae were a fearsome lot and we were not surprised they were able to see off the Excisemen on Friday evening."

Andy would like to thank everyone who volunteered to help make the festival a success.