A coronavirus outbreak has hit one of Ayr's biggest secondary schools with almost 100 pupils self-isolating.
Ayrshire Live understands that seven pupils at Belmont Academy have tested positive for COVID-19 with 96 being sent home to quarantine for 10 days.
The outbreak comes just as pupils return from the Easter break and Scotland prepares to enter into Level 3 lockdown from Monday, April 26.
Sources say pupils in at least two year groups have been affected.
Lynne McNiven is NHS Ayrshire & Arran's joint director of public health.
She said: "NHS Ayrshire & Arran's Protect team is currently conducting a contact tracing exercise with links to Belmont Academy in the South Ayrshire Council area.
"We have undertaken a careful risk assessment to identify any children and staff who may have had contact with the confirmed cases. These individuals have been contacted by the Test and Protect team and told to self-isolate at home for 10 days.
"We appreciate this is a very worrying time. However, we would like to assure people that every measure is being taken to protect children and staff. To respect and maintain patient confidentiality, it is not possible to release any further information at this time.
"We would like to remind people of the symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19): new persistent cough; high temperature; and/or loss of taste and smell. Anyone who develops any of these symptoms should book a test and self-isolate immediately.
"Everyone should continue to follow the FACTS guidance, as well as any national and local restrictions in place. We are currently at Level 4, and this means that you can meet in groups of up to six from six households outdoors in your garden or a public place. You should still ensure you are observing two-metres physical distancing.
"Vaccination of the population is progressing well and is helping to reduce severe disease and hospitalisations from COVID-19. The FACTS guidance remains as important as ever, even if you have been vaccinated. This will help to protect our families, communities and the NHS."
South Ayrshire Council say all queries related to coronavirus are handled by NHS Ayrshire & Arran.
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