NO trains are expected to run to or from Ayr for "the next few days", rail bosses have announced.

Network Rail's update to passengers comes as firefighters continue to tackle the blaze at the derelict Station Hotel building next to the railway station itself.

Train services to and from Ayr were suspended immediately on the discovery of the fire at around 5.30pm on Monday.

Network Rail now says it espects its engineers won't be able to get access to the area for at least 36 hours to assess the damage to the railway and its infrastructure.

Read More: Ayr Station Hotel fire: Pictures from scene as hotel goes up in flames

ScotRail’s services between Glasgow Central and Ayr are not running between Irvine and Ayr, while services between Stranraer and Ayr are not operating north of Girvan.

Trains between Kilmarnock and Ayr are suspended completely.

Passengers are being advised to check their journey with ScotRail for the latest advice and alternative transport arrangements. 

Liam Sumpter, route director, Network Rail Scotland said: “Our team is on-site at Ayr station and working with the emergency services, including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service,  who are still fighting the hotel fire.

“It’s a developing situation and unfortunately, no trains will run while we assess when the station can re-open.”

Replacement buses are running between Ayr and Irvine in both directions, calling at all stations except Barassie.

Separate buses are running between Barassie and Irvine only.

Buses are also being provided between Girvan and Ayr and direct between Kilmarnock and Ayr.

Restrictions in place in the area around Ayr railway station mean the pick-up and drop-off point for replacement buses is outside the Morrisons supermarket on Castlehill Road.