Woman 'of interest' held following Ailsa Hospital stabbing

A woman has been arrested after a health worker was stabbed in a hospital car park.

Emergency services were called to Ailsa Hospital in South Ayrshire at around 10am on Thursday after the 42-year-old community support worker was attacked.

Officers have now held a woman on an unrelated matter, but she is of interest to their enquiries into the incident.

The victim has been receiving treatment in hospital but her injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Superintendent Brian Shaw said: "I am urging anyone who witnessed the attack to get in touch with us.

"It is important that the public is aware that the hospital is open as normal.

"Officers remain at the hospital and we have increased high-visibility patrols in the area to reassure patients, staff and the wider public.

"Officers are reviewing CCTV and carrying out door-to-door enquiries in the area in an effort to identify the woman responsible.''

A force spokeswoman added: "A woman has been arrested on an unrelated matter but is of interest to the inquiry.''

Police Scotland initially locked down the hospital and surrounding area while searches were carried out but the facility reopened around 1pm.

Ayr MSP John Scott raised the incident at First Minister's Questions (FMQs) in the Scottish Parliament.

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

She added: "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 some restrictions were later relaxed.

Billy McClean, associate director for the health board, said: "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.

"We are unable to comment any further at this time."