By Simon Thake

Copyright bbc

There was some controversy at this year’s tournament.

Rules state that stones must come from naturally occurring island slate and they must also fit through the Ring of Truth, a three-inch (7.6cm) circular measuring device.

However some stones were found to have been ground into a “suspiciously circular” shape to help them bounce on water. It led to some participants being disqualified.

Organiser Dr Kyle Mathews told BBC News the offenders had “held their hands up” and apologised.

Lucy is quick to praise the organisers for their swift action.

“They acted really quickly and decisively and fairly.”

As to the individuals involved, she adds: “They were very honest about it, which is something you wouldn’t get in every sport. The integrity of the competition is huge for everybody who takes part, including the people who did this.

“It was a mistake and it won’t happen again. Next year none of us have got any questions about going back and taking part in a really fair competition.”

While Lucy will certainly be back in Scotland to defend her title in 2026 she admits competing in other tournaments around the world is tricky when juggling work and family life.

She also has tips for the casual stone skimmer:

“You should probably always try and aim to start with your hand just a little bit higher than your waist.

“The other thing you have to think about is the angle at which the stone hits the water, the research from a French physicist, said 20 degrees.

“Then just stand-up straight, plant your feet and use your core.”