The presence of rats has led to the temporary closure of North Berwick Community Centre until pest controllers can tackle the problem.

East Lothian Council confirmed to the Courier that the centre had closed yesterday (Monday) following reports of the rodents in the building.

Pest control procedures are now in place and the local authority's environmental health team is hoping to resolve the issue over the coming days.

The adjacent Law Primary Nursery remains fully operational and there is no indication that it will close. 

However, staff are continuing to liaise with relevant parties.  

An East Lothian Council spokesperson said: “The centre had to close on Monday following reports of rats sighted at the building.

"As a precautionary measure Environmental Health are putting in place appropriate pest control procedures and it is hoped that the centre will be able to reopen in a matter of days.

“North Berwick nursery is unaffected by the issues experienced at the community centre.

"It remains open and the teams continue to receive updates from Environmental Health and Connected Communities colleagues.

"Staff remain vigilant and checks will be ongoing.”

All groups who use the centre are unable to do so until further notice. They are: North Berwick Playgroup, Wednesday Art Group, Stay + Play, Sporting Revolution, A private EL Works Interview Meeting, North Berwick Men’s Shed, Stepping Out (lunch club), NHS Antenatal Class, ASD Support Group, “This Is Us!” Friday Film Club, Rugbytots, North Berwick Rainbows (1st Unit), one birthday party.