Fire crews battle Cumbernauld church blaze through the night as probe launched
Firefighters have worked through the night to tackle an inferno at a Scots church.
Crews raced to the blaze at St Mungo's Trinity Parish in Cumbernauld at around 7.30pm on Saturday. Emergency service responders remain at the scene of the fire on Sunday morning.
According to police, the blaze is under control and there are no injuries. Residents previously told to stay indoors and close their windows can now return as normal.
The inferno ravaged the iconic B-listed local landmark, which is situated on St Mungo's Road in the town.
Dramatic footage shows aggressive flames ripping through the premises.
Plumes of black smoke were also seen filling the sky.
Shocked locals were spotted watching on in horror as firefighters desperately worked to tackle the blaze.
At its height, six fire engines were drafted to the scene.
Police say inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the fire are ongoing.
Elsewhere in the town, a car was set on fire outside an address on Spruce Road at 2.30am.
The blaze, which police are treating as deliberate, caused significant damage to the vehicle.
Local councillor Adam Smith said: "Sadly this evening St Mungo's Church appears to have been destroyed by fire. Emergency services have been in attendance for some time, including the ambulance service incident response unit, and what remains of the building is still on fire.
"There is significant smoke coming from the site, blowing in the direction of Carbrain, and those living nearby should keep doors and windows closed. St Mungo's Road is currently closed and emergency services will be in attendance for some time.
"The B-listed building was constructed in 1963 and is under the ownership of the Church of Scotland. Please avoid the area while the fire is ongoing."
A statement from Police Scotland reads: "With regard to the fire at St Mungo's church in Cumbernauld, emergency services remain at scene. The fire is under control, and there are no reports of any injuries.
"No further requirement to remain indoors or to keep windows and doors closed.
" Inquiries into the cause of the blaze are ongoing."
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