A frantic search for the woman last seen leaving the Ailsa Hospital after a worker was stabbed, is continuing.

Police are appealing for information on a woman seen leaving the area of the hospital shortly after a 42-year-old community support worker was stabbed.

The suspect fled the scene shortly after the attack around 10am on Thursday.

The workers injuries are described as not life-threatening.

She is described as being around 5'2" to 5'3" in height, slight build and pale complexion and was wearing a dark woolly hat and a dark jacket.

Superintendent Brian Shaw said: "I am urging anyone who witnessed the attack to get in touch with us. I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in the area around 10.00am and has information about a woman who was seen leaving the area shortly after the 42-year-old woman was stabbed.

"She is described as being around 5'2" to 5'3" in height, slight build and pale complexion. She was wearing a dark woolly hat and a dark jacket. If you recognise her description or have information about her identity please call Police Scotland via 101. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Incident 0923 of 22 November 2018 refers.

"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."