A NEIGHBOURHOOD in Patna has become overwhelmed with RATS. 

An infestation of the vermin has been reported at properties in the Downieston Place/ Dalharco Avenue area of the village. 

Council pest control teams have been called out after three complaints were raised this month.

It has been reported that residents feared the rats posed a threat to their children. 

A spokesperson from East Ayrshire Council said: "The Environmental Health Service has received three complaints of rats at properties in the Downieston Place/Dalharco Avenue area of Patna, these being received on July 7, July 13 and July 14.

"The Council's Pest Control Officer is carrying out appropriate treatments at the properties, and treatments will continue until such times as the infestations have been eradicated."

Rats can spread disease through their urine and droppings but they can also pose a potential risk to a persons home and furinishings. 

In some cases they can chew through electrical wires, increasing the risk of fire and electrocution.