VANDALS are believed to be responsible for a fire which ripped through the former abattoir premises in Galashiels.

Smoke was spotted coming from the building in Winston Road and the alarm was raised at 6.49pm yesterday evening (Thursday).

A bale of hay had been set on fire inside the abattoir.

Two fire appliances from the Galashiels station attended and the fire was put out by 7.37pm although they remained at the scene to dampen down.

Police Scotland were also at the scene due to the suspicious nature of the fire.

It is the second fire at the former abattoir in four months.

A 15-year-old boy was charged with starting a deliberate fire on March 4 which caused extensive damage to the building.

Inspector Mike Bennett of Galashiels police station said: "We're currently carrying out a joint investigation with our colleagues in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) into the circumstances of a suspicious fire that took hold in a derelict building in Winston Road, Galshiels, on Thursday evening, July 28.

"No one was injured in the blaze however it was a needless act of destruction that had the potential to cause significant damage.

"Unfortunately, this is not the first time that vandals have targeted this particular building and we are committed to tracing anyone involved in this sort of criminal activity.

"In the meantime, I would remind people that derelict buildings are extremely dangerous and should not be entered.

"I appeal to anyone who has information that can assist with our ongoing inquiries or who witnessed suspicious activity in the area of Winston Road on Thursday night to contact police immediately on 101.

"Alternatively a report can be submitted anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."