AN investigation has been launched after a mobile phone mast was extensively damaged in a fire which started when a wheelie bin was torched in Johnstone.

A crew from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was able to extinguish the flames to the rear of Thornhill at around 11.30pm on Wednesday before anyone was injured.

Police have confirmed the incident is being treated as wilful fireraising and their enquiries are ongoing.

Officers are keen to speak with a person who was seen in the area at the time and is described as white, around 6ft tall and wearing dark clothing and a black woollen hat.

Detective Inspector Iain Ross, of Renfrewshire CID, said: "We are appealing for information from any witnesses who were in the area at that time."

If you can help, call the police on 101.