POLICE are appealing for information after three fires were deliberately started at a popular Renfrew play park over the past week.

Crews from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) were called to Robertson Park at around 8.10pm on Saturday, 8.05pm on Sunday and 5.10pm on Monday after receiving reports of bins being set alight.

On each occasion, they were able to extinguish the flames before anyone was injured.

Local residents have voiced their outrage at the vandalism after images of scorch marks and debris next to the castle climbing frame were widely shared across social media.

In a post on his Facebook page on Monday, Councillor John Shaw said he was “sickened” by images of the fire damage.

The Renfrew North and Braehead representative added: “This is a well-used facility, loved by local kids.

“We cannot let the mindless vandals who take enjoyment in depriving others of theirs win and I would ask anyone who has any information on those involved in this incident to pass it on to the police.”

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A spokesperson for Renfrewshire Council told The Gazette: “We know the residents of Renfrew will share our sadness and disappointment that such a well-used and much-loved spot has been damaged in this way.

“This playpark at Robertson Park is one we have made major investment in over recent years – and outdoor spots like this have never been more important to the health and wellbeing of local communities than now.

“Our staff will be on site to clear up the damage as best they can and we are working with Police Scotland to assist them with their investigation.

“We would urge anyone who has information that could help catch those responsible for this costly vandalism to speak to the local police.”

Officers have confirmed they are treating all three incidents as wilful fireraising.

Inspector Allan O’Hare, head of community policing for Renfrewshire, said: “To do something like this in a kids’ play park is disgusting, especially when children have very little to do these days due to lockdown, so to deprive them of the use of the playpark is a real low point.

“We will be increasing patrols in the park along with the community wardens and I would ask anyone who has information as to who was responsible to call us on 101 or anonymously on Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”