FREE public drinking water will soon be available at new state-of-the-art drinking stations in Largs.

Scottish Water have committed to installing a Top Up Tap in the town after a recent push by the local community council in a bid to reduce plastic waste.

The group were looking at the prospect of paying for one of the devices, but the company has now confirmed that they will fit one free of charge within the next six months.

Community council chair Anne Carson said: "I am delighted to report that Largs is going to get a water bottle Top Up Tap machine.

"Scottish Water were really supportive when I contacted them to speak about buying one and made this fantastic offer.

"Anyone who has taken part in a beach clean can testify, our throw away society is polluting and spoiling our towns and beaches for generations to come - and that is not fair.

"It’s fantastic we are taking this forward thinking and proactive approach to plastic pollution."

Scottish Water will not only install the machine, they will also maintain it and carry out regular health and safety checks.

The tap will allow locals and tourists to quench their thirst with clean and fresh water at the touch of a button.

It is part of a national drive to persuade more people to carry refillable bottles and cut down on single-use plastic.

Largs is one of 30 towns pencilled in to have the taps fitted over the next two years, with cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh already reaping the benefits.

A spokesperson for Scottish water said: “We’re currently looking at possible locations in Largs.

"No specific location or timescales have been decided at this time, however we will share our plans with the local community council and local residents when it’s possible to do so.

"Free to use and accessible for all, it’s hoped that this state-of-the-art refill point will encourage the local community and visitors to the area to stay hydrated on the go by topping up from the tap, and will help reduce waste by cutting down on single use plastics.”

The taps are plumbed in to the local water supply and are fitted with technology which will digitally track water usage.

Data from the systems can be used to provide information on cost and plastic savings and the volume of water used.