A WRECKLESS firebug deliberately set a tenement close ablaze in Greenock.

The incident happened at a block of flats in Belville Street at about 6.30pm on Friday night.

Two fire crews from Greenock raced to the scene but the blaze was extinguished before they arrived.

Detective Constable Lynn McTaggart, of Greenock CID, is appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

She said: “At about 6.30pm on Friday night there was a wilful raising incident within the common close of a block of flats in Belville Street.

“The fire was contained.

“Members of the public who have any information are asked to contact Greenock police on 101.”