The Coastguard is warning members of the general public that numerous phosphorus flares are coming ashore on the beaches of North Ayrshire Arran and Luce Bay. These flares are extremely hazardous and should not be touched.

They are approximately 12 inches long, cylindrical and about 2 inches in diameter. They are light brown to yellow in colour and resemble bone or piping. They will turn black just prior to bursting into flames.

Anyone finding them is to stay up wind of the smoke, as it is poisonous, and dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.