A beach has been closed amid an asbestos scare after material was washed ashore.

Officials were forced to close Prestwick Beach, South Ayrshire, on Friday afternoon following the discovery of a small amount of a potentially hazardous material.

The decision followed an inspection at the beach after concerns were raised that a small piece of asbestos had been found.

The inspection identified a number of small pieces of material which sparked concern.

Access to the beach has been prohibited as a "precautionary health and safety measure"  until the materials are removed.

All people have been cleared from the beach and signs are being put up stating "Danger. Beach Closed".

The temporary closure will remain in place until a specialist contractor can remove the material and carry out decontamination works.

South Ayrshire Councils said work will be carried out as quickly as possible.

Councillor John McDowall, environment portfolio holder at the council, said: "We have moved swiftly to close the beach as a precaution as even a small amount of asbestos can be harmful if it's disturbed.

"We don't take decisions like this lightly, but I'm sure members of the public and visitors would rather be safe than sorry.

"We simply won't take any chances and the beach will remain closed until the material is removed and the necessary checks have been carried out.

"We thank residents and visitors for their co-operation while this closure is in place and ask them to observe the warning signage at all times."