FIREBUGS are being hunted today after a deliberate blaze ripped through a flat.

Detectives, who are probing the fire at a property in Kilmarnock, said it was being treated as suspcious and have appealed for witnesses.

Firefighters were called in to tackle the blaze in Witch Road, at around 9.45pm on Saturday.

Police said no-one was injured, or received medical treatment, as a result of the incident.

However, the flat was left badly damaged.

Police Scotland said initial ­inquiries carried out by officers revealed that the fire was started deliberately.

Detective Sergeant Paul Richmond, who is leading the investigation, said: "Fortunately, no-one was injured in this incident but it's imperative we trace the person or people responsible for setting this fire.

"The fire was brought under control and put out extremely quickly."

Officers have been carrying out door-to-door inquiries and a ­review of CCTV images from the local area is also under way.

A joint investigation is under way between police and the fire service.

DS Richmond urged any ­witnesses to come forward.

He said: "This area is used as a shortcut to get to the local shops.

"If you were in the area and ­noticed anyone behaving in an odd or suspicious way, then please do pass on your information.

"You many think it's not important but it may prove significant when assessed with other information gleaned from our inquiries. Please do get in touch."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Kilmarnock CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

rebecca.gray@eveningtimes.co.uk.