An increased Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) presence is expected at the former Auchinleck Academy building over the next few months.

Built in the early 1970s, the main Auchinleck school building has lain empty since pupils moved to the new Robert Burns Academy in October 2020.

Last year, East Ayrshire Council announced plans to demolish the building from April 2024.

READ MORE: Council confirms plans to demolish former Auchinleck Academy

EAC says that the decision will aim to save it "£400,000pa as well as the £6.5m capital investment which will be required to retain the facility".

Campaigners are now fighting to save the leisure facilities within the building, which are due to close in March.

In the meantime, Cumnock Community Fire Station has announced that its crews are set to use the vacant academy building as part of operational training.

A crews spokesperson said: "Over the coming months there may be a fire service presence around the grounds of Auchinleck Academy.

"Just for your information, we are using the area for operational training and there is no need for alarm."