South Ayrshire Council say they have made "significant progress" with the work to make Ayr's fire-damaged Station Hotel safe.

But they confirmed work on the southern section of the hotel would continue until at least March.

They also revealed that contractors had managed to save the famous Glasgow and South Western Railway crest stone from the building, which was severely damaged by fire last September.

Ayr Advertiser:

A council spokesperson said on Friday: "We've made significant progress over the last week at the southern section of the building.

"The weather over the weekend may mean you won't see any activity with the crane on site, however, works will continue on the ground.

Ayr Advertiser: The Glasgow & South Western Railway crest has been saved from the former Station Hotel buildingThe Glasgow & South Western Railway crest has been saved from the former Station Hotel building (Image: South Ayrshire Council)

"We're pleased to let you know that the contractor has recovered the Glasgow and South Western Railway crest stone [above] from the front elevation of the building.

"It has been protected and set aside in storage for the moment.

Ayr Advertiser:

They added: "We expect that works on the southern section will continue until around March. There are many factors which can affect progress, including the weather, so these timescales will be kept under review.

"We'll continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available."