A block of four villas have been destroyed after trespassers set fire to a construction site in Johnstone. 

A Persimmon Homes development site on Beith Road was broken into at around 7pm on Sunday night before a block of four, two-storey timber framed homes were set alight.

15 firefighters battled for nearly three hours to contain the blaze which was already well alight by the time they arrived at the scene. 

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Persimmon Homes West Scotland Managing Director Doug Law confirmed: “The Persimmon Development in Johnstone was broken into at approximately 7pm last night and a terraced block of 4 villas was set alight.

“The police are carrying out a full investigation.”

A spokesman for Scottish Fire and Rescue said: "At the height of the incident, there were 15 firefighters and an aerial rescue platform at the scene.

"They tackled the fire using three main jets and it was extinguished at 9.50pm.

"Firefighters ensured the area was made safe before leaving the scene at 10.12pm.  

"There were no casualties."

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland confirmed that the fire was started deliberately.

She added: "Inquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Paisley Police Office via 101"