Residents have spoken of their shock after discovering the charred remains of a burnt out van in the middle of an Aberdeen park.
Visitors to Stewart Park in Hilton stumbled across the blackened vehicle yesterday, which had been left burning on the grass.
It emerged that police and fire crews had been called to the spot at 2.37am that morning after flames were spotted billowing from the vehicle.
One hose reel jet was used while firefighters battled to bring the blaze under control.
The crews left the scene at 4.13am.
Police were unable to confirm whether the vehicle had been stolen.
A police spokeswoman said: “We were made aware by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service at 2.50am.
“Inquiries to establish the full circumstances are ongoing.”
Rev Hutton Steel, minister at High Church Hilton, was taking a walk through the park early yesterday morning when he noticed the remains of the vehicle.
“Stewart Park and the adjoining Hilton Woods have been largely neglected by Aberdeen City Council whilst other city parks get all the attention,” he said.
“The burnt out van is an example of how the park is in a steady decline.”
Hamish Fowlie, 54, was also stunned.
“It’s the first time I’ve ever seen anything like it here, it’s a real shame as someone’s livelihood has been ruined,” he said.
A spokesman for Aberdeen City Council said officials were aware of the vehicle and were taking steps to remove it.