Police are appealing for information after a fire was lit at a north-east primary school.
The blaze, which has been dubbed “suspicious” by officers, took place between the afternoon of Wednesday, March 9, and the morning of Thursday, March 10, at Buchanhaven Primary School.
Mobile phones and a school book were damaged. And officers now want to speak to anyone who may have seen three teenagers wearing dark clothing at the rear of the school on Hope Street in Peterhead.
Constable Richard Duthie, who is based in the port’s police station, said that although there was no significant damage to the property, the outcome could have been much worse.
He branded the wilful fire-raising as “mindless and irresponsible”.
He added: “If anyone was in the area at the time and saw anything suspicious, I would urge them to contact police as a matter of urgency.
“This was a mindless and irresponsible act which could have escalated very quickly and easily. It goes without saying that the damage and distress caused would have been immeasurable had the fire got out of hand.
“As the nights get lighter and youngsters spend more time outdoors, I would ask parents to keep an eye on where their kids are congregating.
“The vast majority of young people in our communities always act admirably and within the law, and it is always disappointing when a handful act so recklessly.”
Members of the public are asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they wish to remain anonymous.
Earlier this month, senior fire and safety officers confirmed that efforts to tackle deliberate fires across Aberdeenshire had been making a significant difference.
Deliberate fires fell from 148 in 2014 to 141 last year.