POLICE are treating a fire in a Borders village as suspicious.

The garden of a house in Kirk Yetholm's Cheviot Place was torched during the early hours of this morning.

And only an eagle-eyed neighbour prevented the flames spreading by raising the alarm.

The garden fire was discovered at around 3.10 this (Friday) morning.

Fire crews managed to prevented the fire reaching the property with only guttering on the house damaged.

Inspector Jim Morrison said: "Thankfully the flames didn't take hold of the building or the consequences could have been far more serious.

"We are working alongisde the fire service to establish the exact cause of the fire but would urge anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity around Cheviot Place in the early hours of Friday morning to contact police immediately.

"Likewise, if you have any other relevant information that assist this ongoing inquiry then please also come forward."

Anyone with information is aksed to call Police Scotland on 101 and quote incident number 404 of the February 22.

Alternatively an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.