Appeal following two wilful fire raisings in Rawyards, Airdrie

Officers are appealing for information following separate wilful fire raisings at two properties in Waverley Drive, Rawyards, Airdrie.

The first happened around 6.35pm on Thursday, 8 December, when a shed was set on fire in a garden to the rear of a property. No one was injured and the fire was out when the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service attended.

A number of youths were seen around the time, all wearing dark clothing and hoods. A white flat-bed pick-up truck was also seen along with a dark coloured hatchback.

The second incident happened in the same street around 1am on Friday, 10 December, when a house was extensively damaged. No one was injured and the fire was put out by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

“Detective Constable Paul James said: “Fortunately no one was injured but extensive damage was caused to a property in the second incident.

“They are not currently being treated as linked but officers are keeping an open mind.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious both before and after these incidents, particularly information about the two vehicles seen and the youths.

“If you have dash-cam or private CCTV that could assist with our investigation then please contact us on 101, quoting incident numbers 2845 of Thursday, 8 December, and 0284 of Friday, 9 December.

“Or make a call anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”