Bogus fireman attended major fire

The fire happened on Saturday 5 April

A police investigation is under way after a bogus firefighter managed to bluff his way on to the scene of a major flat blaze in Edinburgh.

The man joined crews last month as they tackled a fire which tore through a block of flats under construction.

It is understood he spent 15 minutes at the site on Hawkhill Close, near Hibs' Easter Road stadium.

Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service said the man was not involved directly in tackling the fire.

A spokeswoman said: "I can confirm a man posing as a firefighter presented himself at the scene of the incident.

"However, this person was not involved in any firefighting operations and the matter is under investigation."

The spokeswoman, who dismissed reports that the man was dressed in full uniform, said she was unable to give more details at this stage.

A spokeswoman for Lothian and Borders Police said: "We are looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident and inquiries are ongoing."

At least 55 firefighters battled the blaze in April - one of the biggest fires to hit in Edinburgh in many years.

No one was injured, but about 50 residents in neighbouring properties were evacuated from their homes amid fears that a tower crane used during the construction could collapse.

The huge structure was dismantled a few days later.