A LIGHT aircraft has crashed near Prestwick Airport, police say.

Emergency services are reported to be on the scene after the crash, which is reported to have happened in a field near Monkton, close to the airport.

Two people were on board the aircraft at the time; and they are understood to now be in the care of the ambulance service.

Police Scotland say they received a report of a crash in Monkton at around 4.10pm on Tuesday.

 A spokesperson said: "Around 4.10pm on Tuesday, April 23, we received a report that a small aircraft with two people on board had crashed in Monkton.

"The A719 is closed at the B739, Monkton. Emergency services are at the scene. Please avoid the area."

A nearby stretch of road has also been closed as a result of the incident and people are being asked to avoid the area.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) have also confirmed their attendance at the scene, where they remain at present.

Two appliances were sent to the area near Monkton as well as heavy rescue equipment.

A SFRS spokesperson said:  "We were alerted at 4.05pm on Tuesday, April 23, to reports of a crash involving a small aircraft in a field near Monkton.

"Operations control mobilised two appliances and heavy rescue equipment to the scene.

"Crews remain in attendance.

"Two casualties have been passed into the care of the Scottish Ambulance Service."

More to follow