A teenage boy was battered and left permanently scarred after he was attacked by three men at a house.

The 15-year-old victim was in a property in Ardrossan, North Ayrshire, in the early hours of Saturday when he was subjected to a violent assault.

Three men launched an attack on the youngster at around 1.30am on Saturday on Seton Street and he was taken to hospital as a result.

He was treated at Crosshouse Hospital for injuries to his head and chest before being discharged and police revealed he has been left permanently disfigured.

Detective constable Jennifer Carruth at Saltcoats CID said: "This was a distressing experience for the young victim and he will be left with permanent disfigurement from his injuries.

"It is vital that we trace the persons responsible as soon as possible.

"I would appeal to anyone who was in the area at that time and saw anything suspicious or anyone who has any information about this incident to contact police immediately via telephone number 101.

"Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained."