Ayrshire's bird lovers have slammed a decision by forestry officials to impose an osprey viewing ban.

For the last nine years, visitors to Loch Doon, near Dalmellngton, have been able to watch a live stream from cameras positioned close to the birds' nesting sites.

The footage is then beamed to screens in the local Roundhouse cafe.

However two of the bird cameras have recently been removed by Forestry and Land Scotland – and the last one was switched off two weeks ago.

The only way enthusiasts can now see the ospreys is by using binoculars or telescopes from viewing platforms.

Disappointed bird lovers say they have been told that the government agency wants to concentrate on other nature attractions in Ayrshire.

Warehouse manager Roy Robertson, 63, who lives in nearby Waterside, said: "Because the bids are 800 yards away you cannot see them with the naked eye.

"So the forestry people put in three cameras and the Roundhouse two screens.

"People could physically see what is on the nest and what is happening to the chicks.

"It's not the same looking through a telescope or binoculars.

"Over the Easter, Loch Doon was very busy with people who came to see the ospreys, but most of them where disappointed not being able to see the ospreys live on the screens provided."

An angry Roy has kept a detailed digital record of the ospreys since they first arrived in 2014, but says that will be harder now the cameras have gone.

Brian Meechan, who opened the Roundhouse 23 years ago, says the cameras also played a big role in protecting the ospreys.

He added:"It means people can watch the birds without disturbing them.

"I have offered to take on the cost of the cameras, but Forestry and Land Scotland say that they can't be seen to supporting a commercial business.

"Visitors number have quadrupled in the last five years because of the ospreys, and I cannot understand why they done this."

Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP Elena Whitham has also expressed her opposition to the camera decision.

She said: "I have contacted Forestry and Land Scotland to ask if consideration can be given to the webcam being activated to allow continued viewing pleasure for the many followers of these magnificent birds.

"I know that people travel near and far to view these birds in their natural habitat, and that many have been disappointed not to see the live feed, so hopefully this matter can be rectified for folks' continued enjoyment."

Forestry and Land Scotland has been contacted for comment.