A DRAMATIC photo has captured wild swimmers taking on Storm Bert at Seamill on Sunday afternoon.

Two men, wearing only swimming trunks, were pictured entering the waves at around 3pm, in a move that was criticised online.

One critic said: "My opinion - this is absolute stupidity putting themselves and rescue services at risk if they got into difficulties."

However, another defended the duo, and said: " People entering the sea to competently enjoy themselves in knee deep water hardly puts RNLI volunteers at risk."

The News contacted the RNLI, who advised that anyone planning on wild swimming this winter should check the weather forecast and conditions before they take to the water.

They say before you enter the water, assess the conditions, and if the water is too rough for swimming, don’t get in.

In case of an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Storm Bert resulted in heavy snowfall in some areas of the district on Saturday, with golf clubs cancelling play for the day due to the swirling snow and high winds. 

Motorists also gave out warning in relation to the A760 road between Largs and Kilbirnie due to the treacherous conditions.