North Ayrshire diners saved more than £330,000 in restaurants and cafes during August using the Eat Out to Help Out discount.

A total of 87 eateries in the area had signed up to the Chancellor’s scheme, with an average saving of £6.44 per customer.

More than 50,000 discounted meals were served up by local businesses up to August 27, with some choosing to extend their own version of the scheme into September.

Many North Coast premises were involved in the scheme, including Bosun’s Table at Largs Yacht Haven, Room in the town centre and many businesses on Cumbrae.

In neighbouring Inverclyde, 48 eateries took part in the scheme with a total saving of £187,000 from 37,000 meals.

In Central Ayrshire, more than 100 businesses offered the government-backed discount, with customers saving just over £800,000 combined.

Central Glasgow saw the highest uptake of the scheme, with 571 businesses taking part and more than £3 million saved.

Scottish Secretary, Alister Jack said: “The UK Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme has been a roaring success, helping protect 1.8 million jobs in the hospitality sector.

“More than 6.3 million meals were enjoyed in Scotland with the UK Government paying up to £10 towards each.

“I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported the scheme - as well as the staff who made it possible.”