OFFICIALS from North Ayrshire Council have moved to clear up confusion after benches were "removed" from Saltcoats town centre.

A number of locals noticed that in the final week of last month the seats had been removed from the Dockhead Street area.

Many residents wondered why the benches had been taken away and speculated whether it was a temporary or permanent move. 

The council has now confirmed that the benches were removed to undergo maintenance and will be returning to the street soon.

They added that the contractors completing the work on their behalf have said this should be within the next two weeks.

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “We can confirm that some benches in Saltcoats have been removed to be refurbished.

“Our contractor has advised that they should all be reinstated within the next ten working days.”