North Ayrshire residents are once again being asked by the council to show respect to staff working at the area's household waste recycling centres.

This latest incident happened at the Bartonholm facility in Irvine and, according to council staff, saw an employeefaced with abuse and aggression after asking a dog owner not to allow their pet out on site.

Pets and children should remain in vehicles at all times while visiting the sites for safety reasons, North Ayrshire Council says.

Similar incidents were reported earlier this year at both the Bartonholm household waste recycling centre (HWRC) and its equivalent in Kilbirnie.

Councillor Scott Davidson, cabinet member for place at NAC, said: “No-one in the course of their work should have to face abusive threats or intimidation.

“We know that the overwhelming majority of residents who use our recycling centres are courteous and appreciate the job being done by staff.

“So it’s saddening to see staff being abused simply for doing their job and ensuring the safety of visitors.

“We would ask people to show understanding and to treat others as they would wish to be treated.”

The council says any incidents of abusive behaviour towards its staff will not be accepted and may be reported to the police.