THE North Coast's most senior police officer has thanked the public for their continuing support.

Chief Superintendent Faroque Hussain says he believes public confidence has soared in the force during the last 12 months, with two in every three people 'feeling safe' in their neighbourhoods.

He added: "As we approach the end of another extraordinary year for policing, I want to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues for their hard work and commitment to keeping Ayrshire’s communities safe. 

"I see every day how dedicated they are to delivering the quality of service you have come to expect of us and our latest public confidence figures show that more than 70 per cent of people feel safe in their local area.

"Our town centres, bars and clubs will be lively and busy places with many of you enjoying festive nights out. Everyone should be able to enjoy that without fear of violence and we have been working with our partners to ensure licensed premises are safe spaces for all. If you are drinking, please do so responsibly and look out for each other. Be assured that officers will be visible and accessible so please speak to us if you see us. 

"As well as patrolling these popular places, officers will be out and about in our communities keeping people safe as they enjoy the festivities.

"Thank you for your continued support to policing and for engaging with us.

"On behalf of everyone at Ayrshire Policing Division, I wish all readers of the Largs and Millport News a very safe, peaceful and enjoyable festive period."