A FIRE-STARTER almost set himself alight after torching a pub in Airdrie, it has been claimed.

CCTV footage released by the owner shows what he claims is a brazen thug smashing a window, pouring a substance through and setting fire to The Albert Bar in the town’s Clark Street on Monday at around 12.50am.

The vandal, however, had a lucky escape when the blaze backdraft in his direction and he can be seen dodging away from the flames.

The pub, which has been in the hands of owner Colin Fulton for almost two years, suffered significant damage following the attack ,estimated to run into thousands of pounds.

People living in flats above had to be evacuated.

The damage was incurred despite a brave taxi driver attempting to fight the blaze.

He was driving past at the time of the incident and arrived before Scottish Fire and Rescue.

Police say they are investigating the attack which has left the owner baffled over motive.

Colin said: “We have a good customer base and we don’t get fights or anything like that in here.

“It’s been a surprise. You would think someone who had a grudge would just throw a brick through the window.”

Colin has had to close the pub for several days following the incident but he hopes to return back to business in time for the weekend.

Detective Constable Joe Peebles, Coatbridge CID, is appealing for information.  He said: “From CCTV at the bar, a man can be seen breaking a window and pouring a liquid inside which he sets alight.

 “He is described as white, late 20s to early 30s, with a full, heavy beard and of a muscular build.  He was wearing a white t-shirt which he had covered with a black bin liner. 

“When this man set the started the fire the flames blew back on him and it’s possible he could have been burned. If you know anyone fitting the description that may have scalding on his body, then please contact police. 

“It was a totally reckless act and the man responsible has absolutely no regard for anyone’s safety or the effect the damage will have on the owner’s business. 

" Thankfully, the bar was closed at the time of the attack, but there are flats above it and the people had to be evacuated. No one was injured but it could have been much worse, indeed, if it hadn’t been for the actions of a passing taxi driver who put out the flames with his fire extinguisher, there is no doubt the pub would have burned to the ground and there would have been significant damage to the flats above.

“So far, no motive has been established for the fire, so I would ask anyone who has information that will assist officers with their enquiries to contact Coatbridge CID via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.”