Window cleaners could soon need a licence to operate across North Ayrshire.

On Wednesday the council's licensing committee agreed to propose a resolution to regulate window cleaners in the same way as taxi drivers.

Chief inspector Brian Shaw reported that over the past 12 months there were 17 alleged offences committed by people who at time of detection gave their occupation as window cleaner.

It was argued that as window cleaners have access to properties they, like taxi drivers, should have undergone proper checks.

Councillor Ronnie McNicol said: "The licensing of window cleaners is at the discretion of each local authority.

"We have taken advice from our colleagues at Police Scotland and feel that it is right to propose this resolution.

"This is just the first step in the process and there will be a chance for anyone to make representations if they wish to do so."

The decision is hoped to be made at a committee meeting in March.