Stevenston's DEBRA store is currently closed due to "anti-social behaviour" around the store - after a number of caravans and mobile homes occupied the private land behind their building.

The charity supporting people with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) closed the store last week and it is yet to reopen with with nearby residents complaining about the mess being left around the area.

DEBRA also has a store in Saltcoats which currently remains open, and they hope to reopen the Stevenston branch as soon as possible.

A representative said: "Due to the recent anti-social behaviour around the entrances to our shop in Stevenston, we have, unfortunately, taken the decision to close the branch until the situation changes.

"Our stores play a vital role in generating the income needed to support the EB community across the UK. 

"It has been a very difficult year for the charity sector and with so much of our income coming from shop revenue, it is not a step we have taken lightly, but one we must do for the health and wellbeing of our staff.​

"We hope to reopen soon. In the meantime, we would like to thank our customers for their understanding and request that any donations are given to the nearby Saltcoats shop. We look forward to welcoming our customers and volunteers back soon. 

"To find out more about DEBRA and work we do, please visit our website www.debra.org.uk".

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “We are aware of this encampment and our officers have been carrying out site visits.

"However, as it is on private land, we cannot take any action to seek removal and are therefore currently liaising with the landowner.”