Fewer deliberate blazes recorded by fire service

The number of deliberately started fires in the Highlands has fallen to the lowest level in five years.

There was a total of 36 incidents recorded across the region between 1 April and 30 June, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported.

There were 44 deliberate fires over the same period last year and 91 in 2014.

SFRS leaders have welcomed the fall but said that firefighters would have to remain vigilant.

Local Senior Officer John Macdonald said: “I am pleased to note this reduction – but there can never be room for complacency.”

EDINBURGH