A FIRE which saw residents evacuated from their Tranent home last night may have been started on purpose, police believe.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the suspicious fire, which happened at about 8.30pm yesterday at a home on Coalgate Avenue.

Recycling boxes outside the address were set alight, resulting in smoke entering the property.

The occupants were evacuated as a precaution until the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews from the town, Musselburgh and Newcraighall had extinguished the flames and inquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible.

Sergeant Derek MacDonald from Tranent Police Station said: "Thankfully, no one was injured, nor did the flames manage to spread to the property.

"However, had this occurred then the consequences could have been far more severe.

"As part of this investigation we are keen to hear from anyone who remembers seeing anything suspicious on Coalgate Avenue on Wednesday evening, or who can help us identify the culprits.

"Setting fires is not only incredibly stupid but extremely dangerous and puts the public at risk.

"We will not tolerate these offences and anyone found to be involved will be robustly dealt with."

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.