A seven-year-old girl had to be taken to hospital yesterday (June 14) after being injured by a needle in Bellsbank, say police.

The youngster was injured after coming into contact with an uncapped needle left in the grass while she was playing at the park off Corserine Terrace around 7pm last night.

She was taken to University Hospital Ayr for treatment before being discharged.

Police have described the incident as "irresponsible", and are appealing to anyone with any information to come forward.

Chief Inspector Nathan Calderwood said: “Leaving a used needle in a playpark like this is an incredibly reckless and irresponsible act and enquiries into the incident are now ongoing.

"My officers will be present within the community to provide reassurance and I would ask that you speak with them regarding any concerns you have.”

“East Ayrshire Council has been contacted and the playpark has been thoroughly checked and cleaned.

“I would urge anyone with information to come forward and speak to police by calling 101, quoting incident 2998 of 14 June or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”