The Scottish Government has 'strongly recommended' against leisure day trips to Arran as lockdown eases.

New rules introduced today mean residents should now 'stay local' as the 'stay at home' message is replaced.

Under the new guidance those living in North Ayrshire can now make non-essential journeys in their local authority area.

However, despite Arran and Cumbrae being in North Ayrshire, the Scottish Government has discouraged people in the area from making day trips to the islands for non-essential purposes as 'capacity is limited' on public transport.

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A Scottish Government spokesperson said: "From April 2, the stay at home rule is no longer in force, but the law still requires you to stay within your local authority area except for limited purposes.  

"For exercise or recreation, people should stay as close to home as possible and travel no further than they need to reach a safe, non-crowded place. 

"Travel for non-essential reasons on public transport is discouraged as capacity is limited. We therefore strongly recommend against leisure day trips to Arran and Cumbrae at this time."