A BUSINESS director has completed what is believed to be the first ever trip to the Bass Rock on an electric hydrofoil surfboard.

Duncan Purves, from Edinburgh made the 2.5-mile journey to the Bass, off the coast of North Berwick, while holidaying with his family.

Duncan is director of London Foils, which sells eFoil surfboards. They reach top speeds of 30mph.

He completed the round trip in about 30 minutes on his Lift eFoil, which costs £12,000 and is believed to be the world’s smallest personal watercraft.

Duncan said: “Having seen how impressive the Bass Rock looks from the shore many times over the years, I’d always been intrigued about what it’s like up close.

“I’d brought the Lift board with me to North Berwick, which got me thinking how exhilarating it would be to travel out to see it on the eFoil.

“I first checked in with a couple of local sailors about the weather and tidal conditions before setting off from the beach by the harbour.

“Conditions were pretty fair and, as the eFoil travels above the water, the light choppy water wasn’t a problem and I made it out there in around 15 minutes.

“With the adrenaline flowing and heart pumping, taking in the view up close of the sheer white cliff sides, ancient castle, lighthouse and tens of thousands of nesting gannets was absolutely jaw-dropping and one I won’t forget in a hurry.

“Returning to mainland with the mini adventure in the bag and a huge smile on my face, thoughts were soon developing of what other natural wonders could be taken in via this unique mode of transport. The possibilities are endless.”

The Bass Rock is home to more than 150,000 gannets and has been described by Sir David Attenborough as “one of the 12 wildlife wonders of the world”.