Concerns were raised after a dog came out of sea at Largs beach covered in an alleged diesel oil substance last Wednesday morning.

The area in question was at the bottom of May Street, and the dog had to be given a thorough rinse with shampoo, but was reported to be fine after the incident, according to reports on Facebook.

The dog-owner publicised the issue on social media websites, as a warning to other dog owners, and also alerted the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) to the situation.

She reported a 'diesel smell' emanating from the sea water, which had a characteristic rainbow effect as it washed up on the beach, and could be clearly seen in the water.

The incident happened just before 9am.

A spokesperson from SEPA said: “We have carried out thorough inspections of Largs beach following reports that a fuel substance had impacted on the local coastal waters. Following the inspection, no evidence was found to suggest that the source of the fuel discharge originated within Largs and is believed to be fuel leaking or discharging from a passing vessel in the Firth of Clyde.

“No evidence of any residual impact on the beach has been noted from the discharge and any fuel which was present along the coastline has now fully dispersed. On this occasion the source of the fuel cannot be substantiated, however SEPA officers will continue to monitor the area in case of further impacts.

"Generally our advice would be to call our local SEPA team, in the first instance, to report any pollution incident. As part of our investigation we will liaise with any other relevant agency or body to establish the source and deal with the incident accordingly."