Probe after vandals torch pub toilet

Oct 16 2012 by Chris Clements, Paisley Daily Express

An investigation was under way yesterday after someone tried to torch a Paisley pub.

A fire was started in the toilets at the Wig and Pen, with a separate blaze set at the rear of the St James Street boozer.

The alarm was raised by worried residents who spotted smoke and flames at the building.

Yesterday, as detectives appealed for information, experts were examining the scene.

Investigators – including one who was wearing a white forensics suit – could be seen examining the roof area at the back of the pub.

Detective Inspector Julie Henry, of Paisley Police Office, confirmed the incident, which took place in the early hours of Sunday morning, is being treated as suspicious.

She told the Paisley Daily Express: “At around 2.15am, local residents raised the alarm after a fire was started at the back of the Wig and Pen pub.

“Later, a member of staff discovered damage from another fire inside the pub.

“An ongoing forensic examination is being carried out between ourselves and Strathclyde Fire and Rescue.

“Officers will be studying CCTV footage from St James Street, as well as carrying out door-to-door inquiries nearby.”

The pub, which is directly across from Paisley Sheriff Court, was sealed off yesterday, with police standing guard outside.

Det Insp Henry added: “I would ask anyone who was in the area in the early hours of Sunday morning – as well as motorists who were using the one-way system in St James Street between 1.30am and 2.30am and who perhaps witnessed unusual or suspicious activity near the Wig and Pen – to contact us on 0141 532 5900 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 as soon as possible.”

Last month, the Wig and Pen – a popular haunt for Celtic fans – hit the headlines when its team was controversially banned from the Paisley and District Dominoes League over allegations of cheating.

No-one at the pub was available for comment yesterday.