North Ayrshire Council has announced that it has one of the lowest gender pay gaps of all Scottish local authorities.

The authority’s gender pay gap figures are ahead of the national average of 3.9 per cent for local councils.

The news was revealed to councillors as they considered the Equality Mainstreaming Progress Report at their recent cabinet meeting.

Chief executive, Craig Hatton, said: “Creating a North Ayrshire that is fair for everyone, regardless of their personal circumstances, is one of our main priorities.

“Part of this also includes creating a working environment within the council that is non-discriminatory to our employees.

“That’s why we are delighted with this report, it shows we are on the right track to making a North Ayrshire that is fair for all.”