The car that was involved in the attempted murder of a female police officer in Kilwinning yesterday has been traced by police.

We reported yesterday how around 1.30am on Tuesday, June 22, a blue Ford Focus was deliberately driven at an on duty officer who had been assisting colleagues in Eglinton Place.

The 28-year-old police officer was struck by the car and sustained serious leg injuries. She remains in University Hospital Crosshouse for treatment.

The driver fled the scene and the vehicle, with registration plate EJ62 YFL, was traced around 3.15pm on Tuesday at the rear of Baidland Avenue in Dalry.

Extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace the suspect, who is believed to have fled the scene in a dark saloon vehicle.

Detective Inspector Stephen McCulloch of Saltcoats CID said: “This was a very serious incident, which has left the victim requiring surgery, and we are continuing to provide support to the officer, her family and colleagues.

“We have managed to trace the vehicle involved however it remains absolutely critical that anyone with information which could help us identify and find the suspect comes forward.

“We are appealing to any road users who were in the surrounding area in the early hours of Tuesday morning, and may have seen the Ford Focus or a dark saloon vehicle driving at speed, to please get in touch.

“In particular we would urge any motorists with dash-cams, who were travelling through at the time, to check their footage in case they have managed to capture either of these vehicles or anything else which could be of significance.

“Information can be provided to Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident 0217 of 22 June, or anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”