Angry local residents have called for an annual summer carnival to be scrapped.

They say Ardrossan South Beach Funfair is making their lives a misery due to high rise levels, traffic disruption, litter and anti social behaviour by visitors.

Most of the complaints have come from people living on South Crescent Road.

The show began on Friday and runs until May 29. It is then due to start in July for the whole month.

One local resident Sam Gorman, 32, says the event that has been the subject of growing dissatisfaction among residents in recent years. 

He added: "The impact it now has on the lives of residents is causing significant distress and concerns.

"The noise generated by the fair, especially during evenings and weekends, has reached unbearable levels. 

"No one can use their gardens in the summer for that reason.

"Residents, particularly those living in close proximity to the fairground, struggle with disrupted sleep patterns, strained mental health, and an overall decline in their quality of life."

Sam says he moved down to Ardrossan from Glasgow with his partner two years ago for a better quality of life, unaware of the funfair on his doorstep.

He added:"The influx of visitors during the fair also creates extensive traffic congestion, making it increasingly difficult for local residents to commute and carry out their daily activities. 

"I think it is important that our voices are heard and we have the chance to raise any objections in the future to it being granted a licence.

"I would question if anyone would like a funfair outside their home six weeks a year."

Sam, a project engineer, claims the funfair also flies in the face of development plans for the beach, which include a climbing wall, beach gym, mini golf and cafe.

He added: "Seeing this funfair appears just brings the tone of the beachfront back down.

"It also leaves behind a significant environmental footprint, resulting in increased litter, inadequate waste management, and damage to the natural beauty of the beach.

"The fair's duration and intensity have escalated over time, causing disturbances that extend beyond the fairground. 

"The resulting chaos, unruly behaviour, and occasional instances of antisocial behaviour make residents feel unsafe in their own neighbourhoods."

Local councillor Stewart Ferguson said he had received a number of complaints from local residents about the funfair.

He added: "If they are not happy they can write a letter to the licensing board with their objections.

"I have spoken to the gentleman who runs it and they have increased the numbers going out and picking up rubbish.

"He puts a lot of money back into the community and uses all the local shops.

"Last year we had complaints about the noise, which was checked with monitors and it seemed to be okay."

But he added: "I can understand the views of the local residents, but it is all about striking a fine balance."