POLICE in North Ayrshire have revealed they have been tackling a rise in hate crimes since the Paris terrorist attacks this month.

Nationally, Police Scotland say there has been a spike in the number of hate crimes being committed.

According to their officers, there have been 64 race-related attacks since gunmen linked to the Isis group shot and killed 129 people in the French capital two weeks ago.

But North Ayrshire police say they are keen to reassure the public that they are being vigilant in an effort to keep everyone safe.

Safer Communities Chief Superintendent Paul Main said: “We continue to work alongside local communities and religious leaders in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris and encourage people to continue with their daily business.

“In 2014/15, police received 2,456 reports of racial harassment or conduct .

“It is disappointing that since the terrorist attacks in Paris there has been a spike in hate crimes being committed.”

He added: “Scotland’s communities have overwhelmingly shown they are against terrorism and it is important we continue in our united support against these atrocities.”

Local politicians and community leaders have already expressed their outrage at the attacks in Paris and appealed for calm.