AN investigation has been launched after a spate of car fires on a Blackburn street.

A crew from Blackburn Fire station attended the scene off Pilmuir Road at 5.20am this morning.

Crew manager Don Brady of Blackburn Fire Station, said: "The car was well-alight on arrival.

"No-one was injured or hurt in the incident and no-one was in the car at the time.

"There is an ongoing investigation after a spate of car fires in the area.

"There was no danger to any properties as it was on a side street and was a Vauxhall Corsa car. 

"We were there for 45 minutes while the fire was being put out."

A Pilmuir Road resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "I just heard the noise of an alarm going off and then looked to see a wall of flames.

"We are fed up with it here and it is being used as a rat run to other streets.

"It is a real concern for us as you don't want to be woken up at 5.30 in the morning to hear alarms and fire engines pulling up outside.

"It could have been worse as it could have spread to the trees nearby and then you never know what might have happened.

"There were two car fires on Laxey Road too a few weeks ago.

"It is just something you don't expect to be happening so close to your home.

"It seems to be happening more and more and there have been cars and bikes dumped there.

"There are also people riding up and down on quad bikes so it is an absolute nightmare."