A deliberate fire has caused severe damage to a block of flats in East Dunbartonshire.

Residents were evacuated from their homes in School Lane, Lennoxtown, after flames were spotted on the top floor of the block just after midnight on Tuesday morning.

No one was injured in the blaze but police said extensive damage was caused.

Following a joint investigation between police and fire services, the incident is being treated as wilful.

Detective inspector David Patrick said: "This was a very serious fire and thankfully nobody was injured due to the quick actions of a neighbour who saw what was happening and alerted emergency services.

"Extensive enquiries are under way and we are appealing for anyone who was in the surrounding area in the early hours of this morning, and noticed anyone acting suspiciously, to come forward."

Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at Kirkintilloch CID on 101.