NORTH Ayrshire has been battered with 60mph winds and storms this week as officials warned of severe flooding.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency issued a flood alert for Ayrshire and Arran for Sunday and Monday of this week.

Extreme winds battered the coastal areas and swept through Irvine and Kilwinning wreaking havoc for drivers and pedestrians.

In Kilwinning drivers had a lucky escape after a tree snapped and plummeted onto Stevenston Road, narrowly avoiding cars, pictured right. On Sunday giant waves lashed the coast as Coastguard officials warned people to avoid exposed areas during times of severe weather and never to attempt to drive through flooded roads.

A lone sailor had to be rescued from Ardrossan Harbour when his boat was swallowed up by the huge waves.

The man managed to get ashore to safety but coastguard and rescue teams were unable to rescue his vessel which sank after being pushed onto rocks and suffering damage to the hull at around 11.30pm on Sunday evening.

Police warned residents to be vigilant and remember, it is their responsibility to take actions which help protect themselves and their property.

Advice and information is also available through Floodline on 0345 9881188.