Nurse 'serious but stable' after stabbing in hospital car park.

Injuries sustained by a nurse after an attack at a hospital are not believed to be life-threatening, the Scottish First Minister has said.

Emergency services were called to Ailsa Hospital in North Ayrshire at around 10.05am on Thursday after the female nurse was reportedly stabbed.

She is currently receiving treatment in hospital after the area was on lockdown while Police Scotland continued their searches.

Ayr MSP John Scott raised the incident at First Minister's Questions (FMQs) in the Scottish Parliament, saying: "I understand a nurse has been stabbed by a patient''.

Nicola Sturgeon said she was receiving reports about the incident as she came into the chamber for FMQs.

She said: "Our understanding is that injuries sustained by a nurse are not life-threatening injuries and that police are fully involved in this incident.

"Obviously, the safety of staff and patients is of the utmost importance.''

NHS Ayrshire and Arran earlier said no patients, staff or visitors would be able to leave the site but restrictions were relaxed around 1pm.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "At around 10.05am on Thursday, police received a report that a woman had been attacked in the grounds of Ailsa Hospital on Dalmenington Road in Ayr.

"Emergency services are in attendance and the woman has been taken to hospital.

"Local officers, supported by a police helicopter, are carrying out a search of the area.

"Enquiries are ongoing.''

Billy McClean, associate director for the health board, added: £"NHS Ayrshire and Arran is aware of an incident in the grounds of Ailsa Hospital this morning.

"We are assisting Police Scotland with their investigations, and to ensure the safety of staff, patients and visitors.