People applying for Blue Badges in North Ayrshire are facing a three-month delay in getting hold of the important document, it has been announced.

It is understood that a high volume of applications is leading to a backlog in the processing process, with users being recommended to apply far in advance in order to avoid disappointment.

The Blue Badge allows holders to park in designated bays.

A spokesperson for the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership said: "Due to the high volume of applications being received, processing of Blue Badge applications is currently taking up to 12 weeks.

"Please check when your current Blue Badge is due to expire.

"It is recommended that you apply for renewal 12 weeks before the specified expiry date on your badge, as you will be unable to utilise designated Blue Badge parking bays should it expire before your new one is issued."