A gang of teenage louts have been spotted setting dangerous wild fires at a Paisley beauty spot.
Firefighters scrambled to Gleniffer Braes to tackle a grass fire following reports from concerned members of the public.
A horrified dog walker alerted emergency services after spotting a group of irresponsible youngsters setting bushes and trees on fire.
Shocking pictures sent to the Express appear to show one of the youths trying to set a branch on a tree alight, while another blaze took hold of shrubbery nearby.
The dog walker who spotted the yobs believes they had started three separate fires and has blasted them for putting people’s lives at risk.
He said: “There were three fires all in. It’s so dangerous.
“People need to be careful if they are out walking themselves or with their family or dogs.
“I can’t actually believe it. They are ruining the most beautiful part of Paisley and putting lives at risk.”
Firefighters got the flames quickly under control after arriving at around 7.40pm on Wednesday.
Following the incident, fire chiefs have wared people to ensure they are following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and urged smokers to take care when disposing of cigarette butts in dry grass areas.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service also urges parents to be aware of where their children are – and know what they’re doing - as well as making sure they are aware of the risks and consequences of playing with fire.
A spokeswoman for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: “We were alerted at 7.40pm on Wednesday to reports of grass on fire on open ground to the rear of Foxbar Crescent, Paisley.
“Operations control immediately mobilised one appliance to the scene and firefighters extinguished the fire.
“No casualties were involved and the crew left the scene after ensuring the area was made safe.
“Human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting, so it is crucial that people act safely and responsibly, and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.”
Police in Paisley have also highlighted that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
Inspector Tracy Harkins, deputy area commander, said: “Any antisocial behaviour in our communities will not be tolerated and we will fully address any reports we receive.”
