A lone sheep which sparked welfare concerns after it appeared near a busy bypass is being looked after, it has been confirmed.

A member of the public approached the Herald concerned that the sheep, which seemed to appear from nowhere, was on its own in a field near Pennyburn Roundabout in Stevenston.

Other members of the community took to social media to express worry about the mystery ewe.

But the Herald has since learned that a local farmer has been feeding the sheep and hopes to introduce it to his flock.

The farmer, who did not wish to be named, said: “I’ve tried to take feed over to try and entice it but as soon as you go over, the head goes up and it’s straight off. It would just go straight on the bypass and cause an accident so we’re just leaving it alone at the moment.

“It’s not a sociable sheep. It’s came to the stage that I can’t go to the corner of the field in my tractor in case it gets scared.

“It’s checked regularly to make sure it’s alright. It’s nice that people are concerned. It’s in 20 acres of grass, it’s got plenty to eat.”

Scottish SPCA Inspector Katie McIntyre said: “We have been alerted to a stray sheep in Stevenston.

“The farmer who owns the land has been made aware and is checking on the sheep.

“Once the field is dry enough the lone sheep will be introduced to the rest of his flock.

“Anyone concerned about the welfare of any animal should contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.”