Windsurfers catch the island wave

Tiree's challenging waves attract surfers from around the world

Some of the world's best windsurfers are on the island of Tiree competing in one the of the water sport's most prestigious events.

The Tiree Wave Classic is expected to attract 700 visitors to the Hebridean island.

About 50 surfers hit the waves on Saturday morning as practice started.

Organisers said the annual classic, which has been held on the island since 1986, could generate about £1m for the local economy.

The championship, which runs until next Sunday, was given World Cup status last year.

Tiree is the ideal location for windsurfing as it boasts an average wind speed of 17mph, countless white sandy beaches and the most sunshine hours in the UK.

This competition is not for the faint hearted Gordon Richie Event organiser

The island, often described as the "land below the waves", also has Atlantic swell in abundance.

Event organiser Gordon Richie said: "We're expecting big waves and strong winds - the kind of thing that most other people wouldn't go out in.

"These are the kind of conditions you travel the world to surf in. We're expecting the winds to reach 40 knots on Tuesday."

This year's event will include the Coll Challenge, which sees competitors run 10km around Tiree, then surf 6km across the Atlantic to the neighbouring island of Coll before finishing with a mountain bike ride.

Fears were raised earlier this year that Tiree might lose the competition.

Organisers had considered moving it elsewhere in Scotland in a bid to improve access, but confirmed last month the championships would return to the island.

Cliff jumping

Mr Richie said: "This event is one of the most difficult to organise due to its location and the resources available.

"But this is what makes it so special, we have to work hard to create it and competitors have to work hard to get there.

"This competition is not for the faint hearted."

Tourism Minister Jim Mather said: "The Tiree Wave Classic has a significant, positive impact on the local economy and provides a welcome, annual boost to local businesses.

"The event showcases Argyll & Bute and Scotland as a location for international events bringing together sports men and women from around the world together to compete.

"And it gives them a chance to experience the magic of Argyll and the islands."

Other activities taking place include cliff jumping, kitesurfing, blo-karting and zapcat racing.