Detectives are appealing for information following the attempted murder of an officer in Stevenston on Wednesday, 18 October, 2023.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, three officers attended a report of a break-in at a property on Arthur Street.

While carrying out enquiries a 30-year-old female officer was seriously assaulted and was taken to hospital in Glasgow for treatment, where she remains in a stable condition.

No-one else was injured.

Detective Inspector Jonny MacKinnon, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigations Team, said: “We are continuing to carry out extensive enquiries following this despicable attack on an on-duty officer.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident and may have witnessed what happened to get in touch.

“Also, if anyone saw someone in the area acting suspiciously then please contact officers. Any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, could help our investigation.

Chief Inspector Fraser Normansell, area commander for North Ayrshire, said: “Assault is not simply part of the job for police officers, it’s not acceptable and it will not be tolerated. This officer was carrying out her role, serving local communities and protecting the public, when the incident happened.

“I would like to reassure the community that local officers are working with the Major Investigation Team to trace whoever is responsible for this deplorable act.

“We have additional police patrols in the area and members of the public are encouraged to speak to a police officer if they have any concerns or information that could assist