Fresh appeal for witnesses to wilful fire at Aberdeenshire school

Police Scotland have issued a fresh appeal for witnesses following a wilful fire at a Blackburn Primary school in the early hours of New Year's Day.

Published 6th Jan 2016

Police Scotland have issued a fresh appeal for witnesses following a wilful fire at a Blackburn Primary school in the early hours of New Year's Day.

Kinellar Primary School re-opened today, to pupils and staff, and officers have been reassuring the community that they are committed to finding those responsible.

Detective Sergeant George Nixon said: "While the school has reopened today enquiries are continuing to trace those responsible and we are reissuing our appeal to the community for information.

"A number of people would have been walking in the area following New Year's Eve parties and may have seen something unusual or suspicious. We are appealing for them to come forward. We are also aware that a number of people turned up at the school during the early stages of the fire and we are appealing to them to let us know if they saw anything or know anything.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous."

Head of Education Resources and Performance at Aberdeenshire Council Craig Clement said: “I would like to thank those who work in the school, employees from across the council, neighbouring schools and the local community for their help in making sure the school could be re-opened and the nursery accommodated. It was a fantastic effort by all concerned.

“Obviously we are deeply disappointed that this appears to have been started deliberately and urge anyone with information to contact the police.”