AN investigation has been launched after a group of firebugs set an abandoned van alight in Johnstone.

The vehicle was discovered ablaze in a yard near Cochranemill Road at around 7.30pm on Thursday.

A crew from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service rushed to the scene and was able to extinguish the flames before anyone was injured.

It is understood that the van was destroyed during the blaze, which is being treated as wilful fire-raising by police.

While carrying out local enquiries, officers learned that the vehicle had been abandoned in the yard around nine months ago.

Police were also told that four people had been seen pouring liquid over the van and setting it alight before making off.

Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call officers on 101.