North Ayrshire has the lowest 'healthy life expectancy' in Scotland, new figures have revealed.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), North Ayrshire's 'healthy life expectancy' is just 55.7 years - the worst figure for any of Scotland's 32 local authority areas.

Healthy life expectancy is described as “an estimate of lifetime spent in “very good” or “good” health, based on how individuals perceive their general health”.

One place above North Ayrshire in the league table is North Lanarkshire, with a figure of 56.05 years, while Glasgow City is third from bottom with 56.7.

Elsewhere, the figure for East Ayrshire is 58.15 years, the sixth lowest, while South Ayrshire is inside the top half, albeit not by much, with a figure of 62.75.

Top of the heap is Orkney, where the average healthy life expectancy was 74.35, with Na h-Eileanan Siar (Western Isles) on 67.9 and East Renfrewshire third on 67.85.

Dave Marrington from Harlow Leisurezone , which analysed the ONS figures, said: “there are many things people can do to live a long, healthy life.

“A healthy, balanced diet is the first thing to consider. Make sure you eat plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Also keep an eye on your intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive salt and sugar.

“Make sure you exercise too. At least 150 minutes of moderate, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity will do the job. Bundle that with some strength training exercises at least twice a week and you’ll be good to go.

“Don’t forget about sleep either. Aim for seven to nine hours of good quality sleep per night, and maintain a regular sleep schedule, along with a restful sleeping environment.

“Finally, monitor yourself. Everybody is different, so find what works for you, and the best way to do this is with regular health check-ups so you can nip any potential problems in the bud.”