RESIDENTS of Troon's North Shore Lane have been dealing with some unwanted visitors recently. 

Locals spotted a group of five rats in the area at the beginning of April. They believe they have been coming from the railway track and are their nests are being disturbed at night. 

The neighbourhood has reported chasing the vermin away from their properties since they arrived on the street and fear the rats could breed making the problem worse.

Environmental Health have been investigating the situation. 

Mike Newall, Head of Neighbourhood Services, said: "The Council’s environmental health team has been out in the area and are treating locations where there is evidence of vermin. 

"Network Rail has checked the railway embankment and have not found any evidence of vermin to date. We will continue to monitor the situation in partnership with Network Rail during and after treatment has taken place."

Cllr Philip Saxton has received phone calls from concerned locals and wants the problem to be taken seriously as rats carry disease and there are young children living in the area.