A CARE worker has been left 'distraught' after a man stabbed her with a needle in a street in Largs.

The 50-year-old woman was in Nelson Street, near to Harper Crescent, on Saturday at around 6.30pm when she was attacked.

She had been standing next to her work vehicle, a white corsa, when a man approached her and jagged her with a syringe before running off.

Police told the News this week that the shocked victim has been left 'distraught and badly shaken' by the incident.

The victim was taken to Crosshouse Hospital where she will have to undergo a series of tests and examinations spanning several months to ensure she has not suffered any lasting health issues.

The suspect is believed to be a white male, around 30-years-old, with a slim build and a gaunt appearance.

He was wearing a light grey hooded top, black jogging trousers and a grey baseball cap.

Officers are continuing to carry out door-to-door enquiries and are checking CCTV footage for any additional information on the suspect.

Detectives are appealing for any information to the public to come forward if they can aid their inquiry.

Detective Sergeant Stephen McCulloch told the News: “This act has been carried out by a despicable individual, causing the victim a great deal of stress and anxiety.

"I am appealing to people in the area to think back and think if they saw this man or they seen anything which could assist us in identifying him?

"I'd ask people to think back to even consider if they overheard anyone talking about the incident?

"Any small piece of information could prove significant in our investigation."

Anyone with information is asked to call CID officers at Saltcoats police station via 101, quoting incident number 3975 of Saturday 6 July.

Alternatively people can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.