POLICE have been called out to North Ayrshire recycling centres after reports of assaults on staff in recent weeks.

Incidents included a female worker who was left shaken after being assaulted, while a male employee had a heavy object thrown at him.

Now the council has urged residents to show respect to its staff, who are only trying to help.

A spokesperson said: "While the majority of people accessing the recycling centres are friendly and respectful, the council felt it was time they made a public plea after reckless and dangerous behaviour by some customers in the last few months."

Councillor Tony Gurney, cabinet member for green environment and economy, said: “It is really disappointing and upsetting that we’ve had to ask people to show restraint and respect but unfortunately it has come to that.

“We all suffer different levels of stresses and situations when we work but nobody should be subjected to any sort of abuse when they go to work.

"It is completely out of order and staff that have suffered have my upmost sympathy. We would just ask people to be kind and remember staff are just doing their job.

"If there are issues at the site, please be respectful and we will always endeavour to help and resolve the situation.”

For details about North Ayrshire recycling centres, opening times and what can be disposed of please visit the council's website.