A 20ft blimp depicting Donald Trump as a baby will not be allowed to fly at Turnberry, police say.

Police Scotland chiefs were asked for permission to fly the helium balloon - dubbed 'Trump Baby' - over the course, where the US President is expected to play on Saturday.

More than 6000 people have signed a petition urging Police Scotland's deputy chief constable to give them flight clearance at the course, which will have an aerial exclusion zone around it during the president's visit.

However chiefs say they could not grant permission due to "protection" issues.

Alternative plans are currently being discussed.

ACC Mark Williams, of Police Scotland, said: "Clearly there is a significant protection operation in place for the President and this includes restrictions to the airspace in the Turnberry area.

"We need to ensure there is a balance between protection and public safety and the public's right to peacefully protest.

"With that in mind, and on this occasion, we are unable to grant permission for the balloon to fly in that area however, we are in discussion with the applicants about possible alternatives‎."

The giant effigy has already been given the green light to fly in London's Parliament Square when Mr Trump arrives on Friday.

London mayor Sadiq Khan granted permission for the nappy-clad blimp after campaigners raised £16,000 to pay for it.

Mr Trump is due to touch down in Scotland on Friday night before travelling on to Turnberry, the famous resort he bought in 2014.