A MAN has been remanded in custody after being arrested in connection with a series of reported thefts across Kilwinning and Irvine.

Police said the 37-year-old was arrested following extensive enquiries conducted by North Ayrshire's proactive policing team.

His arrest was in relation to a number of theft related crimes, including: four sneak-in thefts, two thefts by shoplifting, two reports of being found in the circumstances likely to commit theft, a fraud and a statute breach of the peace.

He was held in custody and later appeared at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court, where he submitted no plea or declaration, and has been remaded in custody until his next appearance at a later date.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Communities in Ayrshire told us they were concerned about theft-related crime in the local area.

"North Ayrshire's Proactive Policing Team conducted extensive enquiries, which led to a 37-year-old male being arrested in relation to four sneak-in thefts, two thefts by shoplifting, two reports of being found in circumstances likely to commit theft, a fraud and a breach of the peace.

"Following no plea or declaration, the male has been remanded in custody."

Police say they are aware that there are concerns locally about such incidents, thanks to responses to the 'Your Police' survey.

This can be found online at tinyurl.com/YourPolice where you can submit your concerns for the local area.