A spate of incidents involving items being launched from Irvine bridges at passing traffic has prompted police to put out an appeal for information.

Ayrshire officers say five such incidents have occurred in the last six months.

Three reports of rock/missile throwing are said to have happened at the Castlepark footbridge, where items were hurled at vehicles passing on the A78 below. 

The incidents occurred at 3.45pm on August, 28, 2021, 8.20pm on November 21, 2021, and at 4.50pm on January 19, 2022.

A further report details an incident at 5.35pm on January 20, 2022 at the footbridge at Paterson Avenue over the A78.

And a fifth incident happened at 2.05pm on January 23, 2022 at the Towerlands Interchange/Stanecastle roundabout leading on to Long Drive.

Police say additional patrols will be carried out in the area.

A police Scotland spokesperson said: "Irvine officers are appealing for any information regarding recent incidents involving stones or similar objects being thrown from footbridges onto live traffic.

"Since August 2021 there have been several reports of such incidents.

"This is a highly irresponsible and reckless act which could have caused serious injury. We are keen to speak with anyone who has information regarding these incidents to quickly trace those responsible.

"Patrols will be carried out in the area to provide reassurance, prevent further incidents and deal with crimes detected.

"Anyone with information that can help identify the person/s responsible can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."