



The World Stone Skimming Championships has been rocked by a cheating scandal after several competitors were disqualified.
The competition is held every year on the island of Easdale, which is one of the smallest inhabited island of the Inner Hebrides.
According to the rules, participants must use "naturally formed" slate stones from the island which cannot be wider than three inches at their widest point.
However, during the championship last Saturday, organisers say "several" participants "doctored" the stones that they used.
They are said to have used machines in order to make the stones smooth and of an optimal size to skim the water.
As a result, the rule-breakers were disqualified.
Upon being questioned on their actions, they "deeply apologised".
Local GP Kyle Matthews, who is known as "Toss Master" in charge of the competition, said the matter was brought to his attention after he received calls from "concerned competitors".
Under the rules of the competition, participants must use 'naturally formed' slate stones
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"They were worried people might think that’s how things are done here, he told The Scottish Mail on Sunday.
"I contacted the individuals in question, who admitted their transgressions, and I had to disqualify them.
"We accept that’s the end of the matter.
"To give them their credit, they admitted their transgressions, deeply apologised for bringing the sport into disrepute and accepted disqualification."
The competition sells out each year
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The competition-runner said he hopes the fact that the concerns were acted upon demonstrates the competition is fairly run.
"We want to move on from this disappointing episode," he added.
There are seven categories in the competition, including "Old Tossers" - participants aged 60 and above - and the "Bertie", which is awarded to the best Easdale Islander taking part.
If there is a tie for the winner, they are decided by a three-skim "Toss-Off".
This year, Jonathan Jennings from the US was the overall winner.
Paul Brice from Wales meanwhile, won in the "Old Tosser" category and Izen Bird was the "Bertie" champion.
The volunteer-run World Stone Skimming Championships dates back to 1983.
It sells out each year, attracting more than 400 people from around the globe.
Money raised from the event helps to support Easdale Island, including its community hall and harbour.