An unauthorised takeover of Kilwinning Railway Station's overflow car park by travellers has left commuters fuming.

Now Scotrail is preparing an eviction notice to force the caravans off the site.

One commuter, who asked not to be identified, said this week: "If you turn up at peak times, there's just nowhere left to park at the station. They are taking up most of the overflow car park.

"A know a few people have been driving to another station to commute to Glasgow because they just can't find a space at Kilwinning."

Travellers also took over part of the station car park on two occasions last year.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Travellers at the Kilwinning Station overflow car park

Nick McGuirk, ScotRail safeguarding manager, said: “ScotRail is aware of the unauthorised encampment in the overflow car park at Kilwinning station.

"We are initiating formal procedures to seek removal, which will include the issue of an eviction notice.”

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “We are aware of an encampment at Kilwinning Railway Station.

"However, as the encampment is on private land, we cannot take any action to seek removal. We have however been in touch with Network Rail to notify them.”

A Police Scotland spokesman said during last year's incidents: "The Equality Act 2010 provides gypsy/travellers with the same protection as all other ethnic groups.

“Police Scotland work with local authorities and key partner agencies to fulfil its obligations under this Act - whilst balancing this with the needs of the settled community in the area.

“The standard of behaviour expected from all members of the community is the same - a mutual respect of the rights and responsibilities of all those concerned.”