Police Scotland has confirmed that a 42-year-old woman was stabbed at the grounds of Ailsa hospital in Ayr today, and are hunting for a woman believed to have carried out the attack.

Alisa hospital is no longer in lockdown following the incident that took place just after 10am. Staff and patients at Ayr Hospital were ordered to stay put after the attack.

Witnesses told the Advertiser that a patient attacked a nurse with a knife in the grounds of the adjacent Ailsa building.

Colleagues of the victim told the Advertiser that the attacker was a woman but was not a patient at the hospital.

Locals reported staff had been told to stay locked in their offices while police investigated.

Superintendent Brian Shaw of Police Scotland said: "I am urging anyone who witnessed the attack to get in touch with us. I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area around 10.00am and has information about a woman who was seen leaving the area shortly after the 42-year-old woman was stabbed.

"She is described as being around 5'2" to 5'3" in height, slight build and pale complexion. She was wearing a dark woolly hat and a dark jacket. If you recognise her description or have information about her identity please call Police Scotland via 101. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Incident 0923 of 22 November 2018 refers.

"It is important that the public is aware that the hospital is open as normal. Officers remain at the hospital and we have increased high-visibility patrols in the area to reassure patients, staff and the wider public." 

"Officers are reviewing CCTV and carrying out door-to-door enquiries in the area in an effort to identify the woman responsible."

NHS Ayrshire & Arran Associate Director Billy McClean said: "NHS Ayrshire & Arran is aware of an incident in the grounds of Ailsa Hospital this morning.

"We are assisting Police Scotland with their investigations, and to ensure the safety of staff, patients and visitors. We are unable to comment any further at this time."

The Advertiser will update with further information as and when we know.