Vandals have been accused of putting lives at risk after setting fire to a factory before fleeing the scene.
Thugs went on a rampage in the early hours of Sunday morning.
They started a number of fires after breaking into the former McGeorge’s Factory in Sanquhar.
They were spotted running away around 6.35am.
Emergency services were called to the Station Road building where firefighters discovered seven individial blazes in the building - which has been earmarked for potential redevelopment in the Royal Burgh.
Upper Nithsdale Councillor Jim Dempster said the incident “saddens” him and raised concerns that lives could be in danger.
He added: “It is especially saddening that these same kids are putting their lives at risk by setting fires inside properties.
“They don’t know what chemicals or elements might be in there that could be combustible.
“It’s not just themselves they’re putting at risk but the fire service too.
The former glove factory is owned by Buccleuch Estates and the Crawick Multiverse Trust hopes to turn it into an arts and science centre which would boost the economy of the area.
Police said they will be speaking to estate bosses and have also asked parents to speak to their children about the dangers of fireraising.
Mr Dempster added: “This building could be a huge benefit to the people of Sanquhar and the surrounding area. I’m glad the police are doing something and being proactive about it and I hope the kids involved take notice of this.
A police spokesman said: “We are investigating and we will be speaking to the owners of the building, however we would ask parents in Sanquhar to speak to their children and explain the dangers of entering and starting fires within derelict buildings before someone gets hurt.”
