Four teenagers have been charged in connection with crimes in Ayr and Prestwick.

Police Scotland say the four males - three aged 17 and one aged 16 - were apprehended following a series of break-ins in the Ayr, Prestwick and Failford areas.

Our sister title, the Cumnock Chronicle, reported how the group were arrested and charged in connection with a series of break-ins and thefts in the Auchinleck area.

The Auchinleck incidents reportedly happened on Wednesday, March 1.

The South Ayrshire incidents occurred between Sunday, February 26 and Tuesday, February 28.

A large police presence was spotted in Auchinleck on Wednesday.

Police Scotland's Air Unit was drafted in to assist local officers.

Ayr Advertiser: Police helicopter helped to track down the suspects.Police helicopter helped to track down the suspects. (Image: Police Scotland Air Unit)

One of the group was arrested after officers used heat source technology to track down a suspect in a back garden.

A police spokesperson added: "We would like to thank the public for their assistance with our enquiries."

The four are due to appear at Ayr Sheriff Court on Friday, March 3; a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.