NORTH Ayrshire Provost Ian Clarkson has thanked hundreds of volunteers across the area for their support during the coronavirus pandemic.

The local authority has set up community hubs in the region’s six localities to work alongside groups and individuals to ensure support is there for those who need it most.

And the council’s provost has been blown away by the support shown by locals in the aftermath of recent events.

He said: “In my role as provost, I’m fortunate to be in close contact with some remarkable people and groups in our communities.

“That’s the whole point to the Recognition Awards. We want to recognised those amazing people who, day in and day out, do so much.

“The coronavirus crisis has affected us all. I think we all know the severity of the situation now .

“The fear seems to have driven our communities on and they are now going the extra mile to support those people who need the most help.

“The response by people has been truly incredible and humbling.

“I don’t want to single out individuals because there are too many.

“But thanks to each and every one of you who is either helping the council, a neighbour or just being a support to those around them.

“Please keep doing your bit.

“It’s important that we all look out for each other.

“North Ayrshire is a beautiful part of the world but its real strength is our communities and characters.

“We look our for one another and never has that been needed more than it is now.”

The local hubs are situated in Irvine, the Three Towns, North Coast, Garnock Valley, Kilwinning and Arran.

The hubs are not open for the public to visit but will be a base for a small coordination team to operate from.