‘Sheer terror’ as van loaded with fireworks set alight in Clydebank

Families in Clydebank faced “sheer terror” when a van containing fireworks was set alight in the middle of the night.

Homes were evacuated and roads closed when the vehicle, which was parked on a driveway, exploded with a shower of fireworks on Braes Avenue at about 01:00 on Sunday.

There were no reported injuries.

Police have appealed for information about a man seen leaving the scene of the “wilful vehicle fire”.

Yvonne O’Neill, Clydebank East Community Council secretary, described it as “absolutely awful” and “disgusting behaviour”.

Writing on social media, she said the culprit had “absolutely no regard for the kids living in these houses.”

“I’ve never witnessed anything like it – kids screaming in sheer terror,” she added.

“Thankfully everyone is safe.”

The community council has asked for senior officers from Police Scotland to attend its meeting on 3 March to address concerns about anti-social behaviour.

Police said the man – described as white, in his 30s, with slim build and a shaved head and wearing a dark hooded jacket and dark bottoms – was seen making off in the direction of the canal path.

Det Con Andrew Baldacci appealed for anyone who has information about the man, or the man himself, to come forward.

“I’d also ask anyone who saw what happened or has any information about the incident, and has not already spoken to police, to contact us,” he added.

Police have also asked to see private CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from the area at the time.