Owners of unoccupied homes are being urged to consider selling them as part of a council scheme.

South Ayrshire Council's Empty Homes initiative, which helps free up properties for people struggling to find accommodation, has been in place since 2011 and has brought more than 50 properties into permanent use.

David Burns, South Ayrshire Council's head of housing and facilities, said there were was potential to increase the supply of homes.

He said: "Demand for housing remains high and there are a large number of properties in South Ayrshire that could be quickly brought back into use.

"Properties that have fallen into disuse can quickly deteriorate, making them less attractive to prospective tenants and a financial burden to their owners but help is available that could transform buildings for the common good.

"We are already talking to a number of owners and buyers with the aim of seeing even more families welcomed to refurbished properties and would urge anyone with an interest in finding out more to get in touch."