Surfer who went missing off the coast of Scotland is rescued by the coastguard after more than 30 hours in the water

The man from Glasgow was last seen in Cambletown. Photo / 123RF

A surfer who went missing off the coast of Scotland has been rescued by the coastguard 13 miles (20km) out at sea after more than 30 hours in the water.

Matthew Bryce, 22, from Glasgow had been seen in Campbeltown, Argyll at 9am on Sunday morning on his way to the popular surfing spot Westport Beach near Machrihanish Bay.

It is understood he went missing here before the alarm was raised a huge rescue team searched the shore line.

When he was not found, rescuers feared the worst, but miraculously the Belfast Coastguard picked him up alive and conscious at 7.30pm Monday after spending 32 clinging to his board.

When the Northern Irish branch of the emergency services joined the search, spokeswoman Dawn Petrie told RTÉ News hope had faded of finding the missing man alive.

She said: "After such a long period in the water and with nightfall approaching we were gravely concerned."

But hours later, when it appeared certain he had fallen victim to the waves, they dragged him from the water.

Ms Petrie told RTÉ News: "The crew on the Coastguard rescue helicopter were delighted when they located the man still with his surf board and 13 miles off the coast.

"He was kitted out with all the right clothing including a thick neoprene suit and this must have helped him to survive for so long at sea.

"He is hypothermic but conscious and has been flown to hospital in Belfast."

"He did the right thing by staying with his surfboard and that certainly aided his survival."

Mr Bryce, who was believed to be heading to Westport Beach from Campbeltown, was taken to Belfast Hospital to be checked over.

Chief Inspector Paul Robertson said: "The response to our appeal to find Matthew has been outstanding.

"It has been a real team effort and I would like to thank everyone who offered their assistance."