Double-decker First bus bursts into flames in Kirkintilloch

A double-decker bus has been destroyed after bursting into flames on a road in Kirkintilloch.

Emergency services were called to a bus stop on Merkland Drive around 7.55am on Tuesday after the First Bus vehicle was engulfed in flames.

The alarm was raised by the driver, and no passengers were on board at the time of the incident.

Two fire engines were sent to the scene, and the fire was extinguished.

Images posted online show smoke and flames billowing from the bus, with the driver standing close by.

Later, images showed the destroyed shell of the bus at the side of the road after the fire had been extinguished.

A spokesperson for First Bus said: “We are aware of an incident that took place on one of our out-of-service vehicles earlier this morning on Merkland Drive in Kirkintilloch.

“The driver contacted emergency services, who are on the scene, and we can confirm there were no passengers on board and no injuries sustained. We will be investigating the root cause of the incident.”

Two appliances were sent to the scene, where there are said to be no reported casualties.

A Scottish Fire and Rescue spokesperson said: “We were alerted at 7.55am on Tuesday, April 28, to reports of a bus on fire on Merkland Drive, Kirkintilloch.

“Operations Control mobilised two fire appliances to the scene to extinguish the fire affecting a double-decker bus.

“There were no casualties, and crews left the scene at 9.08am after ensuring the area was made safe.”

STV News has contacted Police Scotland for comment.