Police are investigating the fire at the Lamont Farm Project in Erskine

While no animals were harmed in the early morning fire at Lamont Farm Project in Erskine, Renfrewshire on Friday, the team behind the project were “devastated”.

The team said they were “incredibly gutted” after Scottish Police launched an investigation into “premeditated arson”.

The “fairly badly” damaged hut is used as a break room for volunteers and as a shelter for cats at night.

A post on Facebook of the project adds: “Fortunately, all of the cats that were in the booth were able to escape and we managed to get all of the horses to safety in the field, so no harm was done to animals or people, are in favor.” we so grateful. ”

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They added: “We’re still shocked that anyone could do that, especially just yards from our horse stables, but we’re just glad everyone got out safely.”

The farm, run entirely by volunteers, has been part of the community for 46 years.

Police say they were called to Barrhill Road in town around 4.15am on Friday where firefighters were extinguishing a fire at a cabin on the farm’s grounds.

Detective Constable Robert Urquhart said: “Fortunately none of the animals were injured as a result, but it was the noise of their distress that brought staff to the fire’s attention.

“Officers are currently reviewing local CCTV and checking with neighboring properties but would urge anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the early hours of Friday morning to come forward.

“Any information can be relayed to officers in Paisley via 101.

“When calling, please quote the reference number 0401 of Friday 31st March.

“Alternatively, details can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Volunteers have now started a fundraiser to repair the damage and support the animals while the farm remains closed to the public.

A statement on their GoFundMe page added: “We normally rely on donations from visitors and the fire has had to close until we can at least properly assess the damage.

“We don’t know how we’re going to recover from this, we’re trying to do some online fundraisers ourselves as the damage is pretty big.

“Please help in any way you can. All donations will help repair/replace fire damage and continue to support all of our animals here on the farm.”

The donation page can be found here.