Ayrshire has been placed in level three of the Scottish Government's new system of local restrictions. 

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed the news to the Scottish Parliament following a further 37 deaths overnight from covid-19.

All areas of Ayrshire are under level three restrictions, alongside neighbouring areas including Inverclyde. 

The restrictions come in to force on Monday November 2 at 6am, with regular reviews of each area's level by the Scottish Government.

Consideration was given to placing North Ayrshire in level two, however it was judged that those restrictions would not be enough to bring the spread of the virus in the area under control. 

Level four restrictions were also considered for the area due to little signs of improvement in the last few weeks. 

However, it was judged that level three was most appropriate to allow the impact of the latest hospitality measures to show.

Over the last 24 hours, 121 new cases have been confirmed in NHS Ayrshire and Arran. 

Nicola Sturgeon has pleaded with residents to abide by the restrictions in their area, including for travel. 

She said: "If you live in a level three council area, please do not travel outside that area unless you must do so for essential reasons.

"This has to rely on public willingness to adhere, and I appeal to people across the country to keep everyone safe and allow us to continue with a proportionate response."

Under level three, there should be no in-home socialising, and a maximum of six people from two households can meet outdoors and in public spaces.

All hospitality will be permitted to open until 6pm without the sale of alcohol, including restaurants and pubs.

There should be no non-essential travel into or out of a level three area, with exceptions for work, education, shopping, health etc.

Leisure and entertainment facilities will be closed and adult contact sports below professional level will remain off.

Full details on level three restrictions and other levels can be found at http://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-protection-levels.