An Army veteran from South Ayrshire who is paying £121 more in rent than his neighbour in an identical house has launched a petition urging an end to the "injustice".

James Thomson and his wife Gillian insist there should be "fairness and equality" across all tenants of Ayrshire Housing, who rent out the properties.

The couple moved in to the property in Hadyard Terrace, Dailly, around six years ago.

He said: " I am happy to pay what the others are paying, but right now there’s such disparity between tenants.

"It’s just not right to be charging over £100 a month more for the same bricks and mortar.”

In his petition, James said: "I'm a proud veteran, having served my country in the Army for 24 years.

"Upon returning to my local authority in South Ayrshire for housing, I found myself and my wife facing an unjust financial burden.

"We pay £121 more than our neighbours for the same property. Over the last six years, we have seen our rent soar, pushing us into financial difficulties.

"This is not just about us - it's about fairness and equality across all tenants of our housing association."

James added: "Since 2013, new tenants like us have been financially discriminated against with higher charges compared to those who were living in their properties before that year.

"This disparity creates an unfair system where some are privileged while others struggle.

"We believe that everyone should be treated equally regardless of when they moved into their homes. It's time to end this discriminatory practice and ensure equal housing charges across the board.

"By signing this petition, you are supporting a fairer system where all tenants pay equal charges for their homes without discrimination based on move-in dates.

"Please sign and help us bring justice to all residents of South Ayrshire's housing associations."

You can view the change.org petition at tinyurl.com/jamesthomsonpetition.

A spokesperson for Ayrshire Housing said: "Ayrshire Housing are committed to working with tenants to ensure rent affordability and fair rents.

"Historically a small number of rents were protected as part of a stock transfer. Following a robust tenant consultation, it was agreed that these rents would be aligned.

"Whilst we cannot discuss individual cases, we would encourage any of our tenants who may have concerns to get in touch.

"We have a dedicated team of support staff who can provide information and advice on housing costs."