Ambitious plans to transform the former Johnnie Walker site in Kilmarnock into a digital learning hub and cyber crime centre have been revealed.

The HALO, Kilmarnock, is to work with the Scottish Business Resilience Centre (SBRC) and the University of the West of Scotland to deliver digital and cyber education with a specific focus on retail skills.

It will cater for people of all ages and abilities and arm them with both knowledge and practical skills for employment in the digital world.

The HALO is inviting members of the public to have their say in the new plans at a consultation event on Thursday June 29.

Marie Macklin C.B.E., who is leading The HALO initiative, said: "As a society, cyber crime represents one of the most significant threats that we face today.

"Through The HALO, we will recruit, train and arm a cyber town of young, digital experts who will take a front line role in keeping the area and its retailers safe.

"Our young people are our future and equipping them to tackle this important issue will ensure that Scotland is at the forefront of the digital growth.

She added: "We intend to make the Hub a fulcrum of real-time learning input and engagement, from nursery and primary schools to further education institutions, businesses and community organisations.

"The HALO will be one of Scotland's key cyber hubs and will play an important role, from here in Kilmarnock, in line with the Scottish Government's cyber strategy, which feeds into the UK national anti-cyber crime efforts co-ordinated by NCSC."