FIREFIGHTERS in Mauchline have urged local residents not to park in the restricted bays outside the fire station.

The local Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) crew say there has been an increase in the number of cars parked near the entrance to the community fire station on Kilmarnock Road, meaning that access could be blocked in the event of a call-out.

Parking close to the station is to be used by Scottish Fire and Rescue personnel or visitors to the station only.

A station spokesperson said: "In recent weeks there have been an increasing number of private vehicles parking within the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) premises.

"Can we please remind everyone that the station grounds are for SFRS personnel or persons visiting the station only.

"As we are not occupied at all times, due to the nature of the retained duty system, it is important that the area be left clear in order for our personnel to get parked in the event of a turn out.

"If vehicles are within the property upon a turn out and there is limited parking available, vehicles may get blocked in for an unknown length of time depending on the emergency that we are attending.

"SFRS are not responsible for any damage that is caused to vehicles on the premises as signs are posted in multiple locations, along with restricted parking signs."