A priest has been attacked by a man during a robbery bid at a church in Kilwinning.

The 62-year-old invited the man inside the chapel house of St Winin's Church in St Winnings Lane when he came to the door on Tuesday.

However, after entering the building the man became aggressive before threatening the priest and demanding he hand over money.

A scuffle broke out and the man grabbed the priest by the collar and shoved him to the ground before forcibly grabbing keys from his hand.

However, the keys were later recovered and the suspect left empty handed.

Police are looking to trace the man responsible and have issued a description.

He is described as being aged between 25 and 30-years-old with a scruffy appearance, brown hair of a medium build and height.

At the time of the incident he was wearing a blue tracksuit top and dark trousers.

The same man is also believed to have caused a disturbance in the vicinity of the Pennyburn Supermarket, Kilwinning, a short time before the robbery.

Officers investigating the incident and following several lines of enquiry and checking any CCTV footage of the area.

Detective Inspector Mick Carr said: "I am appealing to anyone who was in either of these areas at the time of the incidents to think back and consider if they noticed anything suspicious or unusual.

"Did you see anyone hanging about outside the church? If there is any information which you think could assist us in our enquiries and lead to us tracing the person responsible then please do pass it on."

"Your information could prove vital."

Anyone with information should Saltcoats CID via 101.

Alternatively Crimestoppers can be called on 0800 555 111 where information can be passed anonymously.