Conservation volunteers have launched a floating platform for ducks and other water birds at Irvine’s Oldhall Ponds wildlife reserve.

One hundred plastic bottles, a discarded pallet and a fishing net were used to construct the artificial roost. It was then covered in turf and towed out to its final position by canoe.

The platform is designed to provide a safe roost for a range of birds including coots, moorhens and mute swans, as well as ducks such as mallards, tufted ducks and goldeneyes. Soon after its installation a swan could be seen making use of the new roost.

Harry Richards, Ayrshire Community Engagement Officer, Scottish Wildlife Trust, said: “Our volunteers have been working on the island over the last few months. It was a proud moment to see it installed on the pond.

“Thanks to players of the National Lottery we offer a number of ways to get involved with helping wildlife on our reserves in Ayrshire, including regular volunteering on Wednesdays and one-off events. Newcomers are always welcome and opportunities are listed on the Scottish Wildlife Trust Ayrshire Facebook page.”

Volunteer Anne Stobbs said: “Many of us have been involved with this project from the start, so being there for the launch of the island was fantastic. We saw all our work and planning finally come together.

“It was a great experience to get out on the water in the canoe to see the island in place. It really made me feel close to nature, and see the reserve from the perspective of the wildlife."