A FIRE which broke out on the edge of a wheat field putting crops worth more than £100,000 at risk, may have been started deliberately, police said.

Police were called to the blaze at a farm east of Haddington, on Friday evening.

They said the grass verge next to the field appeared to have been set alight and described the blaze as suspicious.

Police Scotland reported earlier today that more than £100,000 worth of crops had been destroyed in the fire.

However they have now corrected their statement to say no crops were lost.

But they said the impact of the fire, which spread across up to 40 square metres of dry land, could have been devastating.

Inquiries are ongoing and officers are keen to trace a large group of youths aged between 16 and 19, who were seen in the area prior to the fire.

Constable Craig Purves from Haddington Police Station said: "While no one was injured as a result of this fire, the financial impact on the farm could have been devastating if the crops had been destroyed.

"We would urge anyone who can help us trace those responsible for this reckless act to contact police immediately.

"In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to this investigation should also get in touch."

Those with information can contact Haddington Police Station via 101 and quote incident number 4512 of the 27th July. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.