Relentless wild fires raged near Irvine beach last night causing widespread damage to grassland and trees.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews responded at around 3pm yesterday (Thursday, May 23) before returning to battle the blaze again early this morning.

Local Senior Officer James Scott said: “The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was alerted at 3.09pm on Thursday, May 23 to reports of grass on fire near Marine Drive, Irvine.

“Operations Control mobilised four fire appliances where crews extinguished the fire.

“Crews were then mobilised again at 5.38am on Friday, May 24 after a fire at the scene had reignited.

“Crews then left the scene at 11.19am.”

Irvine Times:

A police spokesperson said: "The fire brigade alerted Police Scotland to a call at Marine Drive in Irvine. Officers assisted fire crews with traffic management."

A Coastwatch spokesperson said: "A fire broke out on the dunes at Marine Drive about 3pm causing widespread damage to grassland and trees.

"With multiple units from Scottish Fire and Rescue and road closures we were asked to assist with a public cordon. With members out at pathways along Marine Drive and back at base, With thanks from the Senior Officer we stood down when the fire was out at 9.45pm although Fire Brigade remain on site.

Irvine Times:

"Thanks to everyone that stayed late. We signed of just before 10pm with some being on duty since 8.30am."