Contact tracing is underway at glass packaging facility Ardagh Glass in Irvine after a 'small number' of positive coronavirus cases were confirmed.

The facility is located on Portland Place in Irvine.

Joy Tomlinson, Director of Public Health, said: "NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Test and Protect team is carrying out COVID-19 contact tracing following a small number of positive coronavirus (COVID-19) cases related to a local workplace in North Ayrshire.

"Those who have been identified as close contacts through this process have already been contacted directly by the Test and Protect Team and advised to self-isolate for 14 days.

"The workplace has physical distancing and hygiene processes in place to minimise the risk of viral spread and to support Test and Protect. The risk to the public is considered low.

"All relevant Public Health measures are in place and our Public Health Team is working with North Ayrshire Environmental Health Officers to manage and monitor the situation.

"To respect and maintain patient confidentiality it is not possible to release any further information at this time."

A spokesperson for the company told the Times: "Ardagh Group Irvine confirms the facility’s first positive cases of COVID-19. Close contacts of the cases are being tested and are isolating.

"The local health protection team have been alerted and the test and protect protocol is now in place following the positive test results.

"Our teams are applying all recommended health and hygiene practices to all aspects of our operations. We do not have any further details at this time but are continuing to closely monitor the situation and will provide updates when appropriate."