Eight people have been charged with poaching from a loch near Ayr.

The offenders have been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for poaching and causing damage to a site of special scientific interest (SSSI).

Between Tuesday, June 2 and Thursday, June 5 2020, seven men aged between 21 and 25 and one woman aged 24 were charged with the alleged offences at Martnaham Loch between Dalrymple and Coylton.

The loch is a designated SSSI, an area of land and water that is considered to best represent Scotland’s natural heritage in terms of its flora, fauna, animals, geology and geomorphology.

Ayrshire Response Policing Inspector Joseph Murdoch said: “Areas like this by their nature are beauty spots and can attract walkers, cyclist and those wanting to fish.

“This site has been specified due to its importance for providing natural habitats for native plants, animals and insects. People visit this area without realising the impact they may be having.

“Local officers have increased patrols in the area in response to community concerns - we will continue to engage with visitors and take enforcement action where necessary. I would encourage those visiting SSSI sites to do so with care and respect for the area and to follow any rules sign posted around the sites.”

Anyone wishing to report crime in their area can contact their local policing team by calling 101 (always dial 999 in an emergency) or alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.