Police have appealed for information after a string of suspected housebreaking attempts in the Girdle Toll area of Irvine this week.

They are investigating a report of a man entering a house in the Braehead Street area around 7.30am on Monday, July 29. He ran off when challenged.

Officers also received two reports of a man trying doors in Bensley Avenue at 6.35am and 6.42am, and a further report from Sourlie Terrace, also early Monday morning.

The incidents are being treated as linked, and the suspect is described as white and in his 40s, of gaunt appearance and slim build with messy brown hair. He was wearing a black waterproof jacket, black trousers. He may walk with a limp.

Sergeant Fraser of Irvine Police Station said: “Officers are carrying out enquiries in and around the Girdle Toll area to trace the man responsible.

“We would urge anyone who has any information regarding his identity, or who has information and hasn’t yet spoken to officers, to contact us.

“We also appeal to any drivers in the area around these times with dashcam or personal footage to please check their devices, and get in touch if it holds anything relevant.

“Contact Police Scotland through 101 quoting reference number 1518 of 29 July. Alternatively, Crimestoppers Scotland can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”