A fire which was deliberately started in a flat could have been “extremely serious”, police say.

Emergency services were called to the property on Haig Crescent, Bathgate at around 5.30am on Monday, which was found to be ablaze with its windows smashed.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service quickly extinguished the flames and no one were hurt.

Police Scotland believe the fire was deliberate and officers are now appealing for witnesses.

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Detective Constable Lynn Myles said: “This fire had the potential to become extremely serious and it was only due to the prompt action of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service that a minimal amount of damage was caused.

“It is essential that we trace those involved in this incident as soon as possible.

“I would ask anyone who was in the Haig Crescent area of Bathgate in the early hours of Monday and saw anything suspicious, to get in touch with us at their earliest convenience.”