A YOUNGSTER was hit on the head with a firework last night in Saltcoats

And it is believed that it was thrown from a passing car before it struck the nine-year-old girl.

Around 7pm, the girl was in the vicinity of the town's Knox Place, near to the popular bonfire spot on the grass area between Anderson Drive and New England Road, when she was hit on the head with the firework. 

Fortunately she was not injured as a result of the incident but police are treating it seriously in efforts to catch the culprit. 

Chief Inspector Brian Shaw said: "Enquiries are ongiong to try and track down those responsible. 

"A nine-year-old girl was struck on the head with a firework and we believe it was thrown from a passing vehicle. 

"This is a horrendous incident and it is very fortunate that there were no injuries. We are treating this very seriously." 

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Saltcoats Police on 101.