EAST Ayrshire has been crowned the UK’s most affordable place for first-time buyers.

Punters purchasing their first digs are being urged to seriously consider living in places like Cumnock and Doon Valley because of it's prices.

Research by the Bank of Scotland revealed that the region compares favourably with other areas.

Ricky Diggins, director at the bank, said: “With a much lower deposit required north of the border, first-time buyers in Scotland will have to put down a lot less to get the keys to their first home, especially those in East Ayrshire - the UK’s most affordable place for first-time buyers.