House destroyed after wheelie bin set on fire

A HOUSE has been completely destroyed after a wheelie bin was set alight next to the property.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the suspicious fire in Livingston which happened around 11.05pm yesterday at an address in Heatherbank.

The burning wheelie bin led to the building catching fire and being completely destroyed.

The 57-year-old resident was able to get out and contacted the emergency services.

A short time earlier, a waste skip had been set on fire in the area and detectives are investigating whether both of these incidents are linked.

Detective Constable Krista Tench said: “Fortunately the occupant escaped unharmed from the fire.

“However, this could have had more serious consequences and anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious in the area should contact police immediately.

“Similarly, anyone with any other information that can assist with our enquiries is also asked to come forward.”

Those with information should contact police on 101, or make an anonymous report through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.