Duathlon organisers insure against Loch Ness monster attack

Organisers of a duathlon in Scotland have taken out a £1 million insurance policy against attack by or sighting of the fabled Loch Ness monster.

First Monster Duathlon race director Malcolm Sutherland said they were planning for all eventualities.

Transport operator FirstGroup said in a statement its policy with insurers Royal and Sun Alliance would pay out should "Nessie" emerge from the murky depths of the vast watercourse and/or attack one of the competitors.

Any "proven sighting" has to be independently verified, subject to policy terms and conditions, the insurer said.