TWO teenagers have been arrested and charged in connection with the devastating fire at the Station Hotel in Ayr. 

Police said the pair will be "reported to the relevant authorities" following the blaze at the derelict building.

The fire continues to burn almost 16 hours after the first call to the emergency services, with five fire appliances and their crews still present at the scene.

READ MORE: Keep up to date with all the latest news on the fire at our live blog

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Two male youths, aged 17 and 13, have been arrested and charged in connection with fire-raising following the incident.

"They will both be reported to the relevant authorities and further enquiries are ongoing."

Several roads have been closed in the vicinity of the railway station, and police are asking the public to avoid the area where possible.

The road closures include:

• Kyle Street at High Street

• Smith Street at Mill Street

• Pedestrian closure of Smith Street from the Station Hotel to Ayr Central

• Castlehill Road at the Market Inn

• Parkhouse Street

• Burns Statue Square at Killoch Place

Diversion routes are in place but the road closures are likely to impact on journey time.

The fire has also affected public transport and travellers should check with their operators for current updates.

Police were made aware of the fire shortly after 5.45pm on Monday, September 25.

READ MORE: Latest travel updates as fire sees ScotRail trains to and from Ayr cancelled

Superintendent Gillian Grant said: “We are aware of the significant disruption that this fire continues to cause for local residents in businesses in Ayr.

“I would urge people to be aware of the road closures and plan their journeys accordingly.

“I would ask people to avoid the area wherever possible to allow emergency services to work safely at the scene.”