Work to remove potentially hazardous materials from Prestwick beach is under way after asbestos was discovered last week.

The beach has been closed to the public since Friday, July 29, after laboratory analysis identified asbestos fibres on materials which had been washed ashore.

South Ayrshire Council said a contractor has begun preparatory work on the site ahead of efforts on Friday to remove and analyse any additional hazardous materials.

An investigation into the source of the contamination will also be carried out.

The local authority said it is working closely with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency and NHS Ayrshire and Arran.

It is also in contact with Prestwick St Nicholas Golf Club, which is responsible for the sections of the beach next to the golf course.

Mike Newall, South Ayrshire Council's head of neighbourhood services, said on Monday: "Our contractor will begin the sweep of the beach tomorrow morning to identify and remove any materials potentially of concern.

"While that work is ongoing - and until we are more informed about the potential impact of the materials found - the beach closure will remain in place and we will continue to monitor and review this on an ongoing basis.

"We are actively investigating the source of this material in conjunction with our specialist contractor.

"While investigations are in progress and until a full scientific risk assessment can be carried out, the beach has been closed as a precaution. We ask locals and visitors alike to follow the warning signs and stay off the beach for the time being."

Dr Elvira Garcia, a consultant in public health medicine for NHS Ayrshire and Arran, said: "Until we know more about the material on Prestwick beach, and any potential impact on public health, the precautionary beach closure will minimise the likelihood of exposure."

Beaches at Ayr, Barassie, Newton and Troon have been given the all-clear after precautionary checks for similar materials were carried out.