Two projects encouraging active lifestyles have been approved in Kilmarnock.

A climbing centre will be set up in the former Grange Church and Kilmarnock Rugby Club will get a new changing pavilion thanks to investment from East Ayrshire Council's grants committee.

The climbing centre will provide a range of facilities including bouldering, climbing and abseiling, changing facilities and a cafe after receiving a grant of £305,000.

Meanwhile, the new pavilion at Bellsland rugby park on Queen's Drive will include upgraded facilities and changing rooms for both male and female players.

The pavilion will include four rooms each with a changing area, showers and toilets suitable for 20 participants, and will fulfil sportscotland standards for junior members.

Construction of the facility has been made possible thanks to a grant of £250,000.

Councillor Iain Linton, chair of the grants committee, said: "This grant funding, which comes from Whitelee Windfarm income, is great news for these two projects in Kilmarnock.

"It will make a real difference in helping them to progress with their objectives of promoting social, sporting and recreational activities in East Ayrshire.

"With climbing becoming an Olympic sport at the 2020 Olympics, demand for climbing and bouldering activities will rise significantly so this is the perfect time to create a facility like this.

"It's also very important that the rugby club has appropriate changing facilities now that membership of young people and females is increasing, which is great to see."

Other grants have been awarded to local projects including East Ayrshire Car Club in Muirkirk, New Cumnock Community Council, Kilmarnock Amateur Weightlifting Club and the extension of the community garden at Kilmarnock YMCA.