A fire took hold in a disused building last night causing difficulty for Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service as it was near homes and the railway line.

Lothian and Borders Police are appealing for witnesses following the incident which happened around 5.15pm yesterday at a vacant church. The building, which was previously used as a storage facility, has been completely destroyed after sustaining significant structural damage. However, no one was injured.

Police maintained a cordon in the area while Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service tackled the blaze. Enquiries are now underway to determine the circumstances surrounding this incident.

A police spokesman said: “Due to the extensive damage the church has suffered, we have yet to establish the cause of the fire and are keen to hear from anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious in the area early yesterday evening.

“Similarly anyone with any other information that can assist with our investigation is asked to contact police immediately.”

Those with information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.

Amidst rumours that the fire may have been started deliberately, The Reporter caught up with Garry MacKay of Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service just before lunchtime today to find out more:-

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Founding Editor of The Edinburgh Reporter.
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