South Ayrshire Council will fly the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) flag for the first time in February.

It will raise the rainbow flag outside the county buildings during LGBTI history month which takes place in Scotland every February.

Councillor Laura Brennan-Whitefield said: "LGBT History Month presents us with an opportunity to learn more about the issues faced by minority groups in our communities.

"The council is actively engaging in this process with our youth work team achieving a LGBT Silver Charter Mark Award recently.

"Everyone should be treated fairly, no matter their background or identity, and this is a message we will be highlighting with the help of our partners throughout February and beyond."

Siobhan Fahey from Ayrshire LGBT Group said: "The flying of the Rainbow Flag from the County Buildings represents a significant display of unity and support from our local authority.

"This public display of support can help many people struggling with their own sexual orientation or gender identity see that they have support from the wider local community.

"This in turn can have a huge impact on their personal experiences and general well-being."