POLICE are seeking a group spotted with deckchairs and fishing rods on the banks of Loch Allan around the time a wildfire broke out last month.
The investigation into the blaze, which began close to the loch in Strathspey on June 28, is continuing.
The fire was first reported to police shortly after 4pm on the Saturday, and inquiries have so far suggested that the wildfire may have started on the shoreline to the south-east of the loch, just north of the A939 road.
Several roads in the Dava area were closed while emergency services dealt with the incident and police advised people to avoid the area if possible.
A separate investigation into a wildfire near Carrbridge – to the south-west of Dava – has been concluded and no criminality has been established.
Detective inspector Andy Bilton said: “Fortunately no one was injured but a large swathe of countryside was badly affected by the wildfires.
“We are continuing to work with partners in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to establish the full circumstances.
“We received a report that people with deck chairs and fishing rods were seen in the area around the time the Loch Allan fire broke out.
“And we are keen to speak to them as they may have information that could assist with our enquiries.
“We would ask them to come forward and speak with officers.
“We would also like to speak to a woman who assisted the first attending fire crew at Loch Allan by pointing out where the fire appeared to have started.
“Her information could be important and we would urge her to get in touch.”
