Hunt for teenagers after farm fire

Four teenagers are being sought following a farm fire in the Mearns.

The Saturday night blaze caused damage which has been estimated at a low four-figure sum.

The officer leading the investigation said the consequences could have been much worse – even fatal.

Police Scotland appealed for information following the suspicious fire which broke out at a farm in the St Cyrus area.

Officers received a report of several hay bales being set alight at around 8pm on Saturday within the grounds of Mains of Woodstone Farm.

PC Hannah Sproat said: “I would appeal to anyone with information about this incident to please get in touch.

“In particular, we would like to speak to four teenagers, aged around 15/16-years-old, who were seen in the area around the time in question and could assist with our inquiries.

“The farm is near the A92 so I would also urge any drivers who may have been in the area and saw anyone or anything suspicious to let us know.

“Thankfully no one was hurt as a result of this incident, however it goes without saying that the outcome could have been much worse, even fatal,” she added.

She said that anyone with information can contact police on 101.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if they would prefer to remain anonymous.