A fire has broken out at a derelict former Ayrshire bingo hall with neighbours told to stay in their homes.
Fire crews are at the scene on Dalrymple Street, Girvan tackling flames at the Old Bingo Hall.
It is believed the blaze started around 12noon as a contractor carried out demolition work on the crumbling building which has lain empty for years.
Nearby residents had previously reported structural damage to the building which was recently purchased by South Ayrshire Council.
Council chiefs swooped in on the eyesore which had been cause of concern for residents who complained of rats, pigeons and structural damage.
The building which was also vogue cinema whilst in operation, was purchased last year by the council for £80,000.
Campbell Frame stays across from the ruin and has told Ayrshire Live how contractors were working on removing steel beams before smoke started billowing out.
Campbell, 74, said: “We have all been told to stay in our homes, fire services are here just now so are police.
“There is still smoke coming out the back of the building, the worry is this could spread to the main building itself. It's not safe and hasn’t been for years."
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We were made aware of a fire at a property on Wesley Place in Girvan around 12noon on Tuesday, May 4.
"Officers are currently supporting the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service at the scene."
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 11.34am on Tuesday, May 4 to reports of a building on fire at Wesley Place, Girvan.
“Operations Control mobilised two appliances to a disused property and crews are still in attendance.
“There are no reported casualties at this time.”
A South Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: "The former bingo hall in Girvan is currently being demolished.
"The contractor carrying out the works, reported an incident of smoke to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service who carried out checks. The area was cordoned off as a precaution."
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