Nevis Canoe Club was in the process of installing a new storage shed for its sea kayaks, canoes and other equipment on the disused tennis courts behind Lochaber Leisure Centre in Fort William.

But club officials have been left astounded at the disappearance of the 20ft by 10ft shed.

The theft of the shed has been reported to the police and officers are continuing with their enquiries.

The club recently gained permission to build a new store on the dilapidated tennis courts. Its current store, at the same site, is too small for three large sea kayaks recently purchased by the club.

The new facility will be a central storage space for all the club's equipment.

At present the club has to store some of its canoes, kayaks and associated items in the Cadet Hall at Glen Nevis Place or at the homes of some of its members.

Nevis Canoe Club secretary, Dave Parfitt told the Lochaber News: "We just can't believe this has happened. The club raised £1,100 for the new shed and now it's gone.

"We reckon it has been taken in the last 10 to 14 days and all that is left are the flagstones we are using for the foundation.

"Whoever has done this has gone to some considerable effort to move the materials as it took four of us to lift it off the trailer and into the courts.

Dave Parfitt and Bridget Thomas, of Nevis Canoe Club, on the site of the new storage shed. The Write Image, 01397 703323

"We had laid the flagstones down for a base and had drilled 100 holes in it for drainage and we were then just waiting for a suitable time for us to finish the job by putting up the walls and the roof. But now the walls and roof are gone.

"It's very disappointing and I would urge anyone with any information to get in touch with the police at Fort William."

Nevis Canoe Club re-established itself three years ago and has a membership of around 70.

As well as providing training and activities for adults the club does a lot of work with local schoolchildren, led by Lochaber active schools co-ordinator and canoe club member Bridget Thomas.

Anyone with information should contact Fort William police station on (01397) 702361 or the confidential line on (01397) 702000.

s.taylor@lochaber-news.co.uk

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