Fire crews will hold a large training exercise at Irvine's high flats this week, with more than 60 people involved in the two-day drilling.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will carry out a controlled multi-agency fire simulation exercise in the disused multi-storey flats at Doon Court.

Firefighters will train alongside Police Scotland and Scottish Ambulance Service colleagues within disused parts of the buildings throughout Wednesday, December 8 and Thursday, December 9.

Irvine Times: Credit: Charlie GilmourCredit: Charlie Gilmour

This will involve a significant emergency service presence around the buildings and surrounding area, with artificial smoke likely to be visible from a distance.

The exercise will involve more than 60 people, including emergency service workers and volunteers in role-play simulation.

Area Commander Ian McMeekin said: “I’d like to remind the public that this is a controlled event, and not to be alarmed by the significant presence around the area on Wednesday and Thursday.

Irvine Times: Credit: Charlie GilmourCredit: Charlie Gilmour

“Exercises such as this are important and hugely worthwhile for our firefighters to train to protect our communities alongside emergency service colleagues in a unique and dynamic environment – and follows several months of planning.

“It has also been made possible thanks to invaluable support from our partners in North Ayrshire Council.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the local authority, the community, and our partners for their continued support.”