Whitewater kayaking on the River Averon near Alness, in Ross-shire.

Despite things finally thawing after weeks of cold weather, there was still snow and ice about in the shadier parts of the riverside - adding to the hazards of the photographer scampering about on the banks, whilst trying to keep ahead of the (Inverness Canoe Club) kayakers.

Too cold for this big feartie to head out in his wee kayak. I'm far too much out of practice to restart on this river, and my hands suffer a lot in the cold. There was some swimming involved amongst the hardier souls...