BOSSES at a Barrhead bus firm have been left devastated after a blaze tore through their yard, causing tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Police have confirmed the incident at Swift Coaches, which destroyed three buses, is being treated as wilful fireraising.

Flames and smoke were spotted billowing from the firm’s depot in Carlibar Road in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Alistair Todd, director of Swift Coaches, admitted the blaze is a blow to the firm but stressed that its services will not be affected.

He told the Barrhead News: “It is devastating that this has happened at this time of year but it will not impact the rest of the services we provide.

“The fire service arrived within around seven minutes and they were able to stop any further damage spreading to any of our other vehicles.

“People were definitely awoken by the noise when it started.”

The emergency services have confirmed that no-one was injured during the arson attack.

Police have urged any witnesses to come forward.

A spokesperson said: “We are currently investigating the incident in Carlibar Road and would ask anyone with any information to contact us on 101.

“Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be given anonymously.”
A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson added:

“We were alerted at 3.38am on Sunday, December 29, to reports of a fire at Carlibar Road, Barrhead.

“Operations Control mobilised two appliances to the scene, where firefighters were met with several commercial buses well alight.

“Crews extinguished the fire and left after making the area safe.

“There were no reported casualties.”

Established in 1997, Swift Coaches specialises in providing home-to-school transport, as well as transport for businesses, clubs, societies and other private bookings.