A blaze that tore through an under-construction community centre in Midlothian was started deliberately.

Officers condemned the "mindless" act, which damaged the Gorbebridge Beacon in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The centre is under construction and will contain office space for rent as well as cafe facilities.

The blaze broke out just after 4.30am at the site on Hunterfield Road.

The suspect is described as a white teenager with a skinny build and short dark hair with a fringe.

He was wearing a long-sleeved patterned top, dark skinny jeans, white trainers and was carrying a black rucksack.

Posting on Facebook, the trust which was set up to run the community site said: "We are all devastated here but it's not just the trust - the builders, our funders, the architects, engineers, surveyors and everyone who have put years of effort in can't believe it has happened.

"Rest assured - this makes everyone even more determined to deliver a community hub for Gorebridge."

Detective sergeant Dave Reilly, of Dalkeith CID, said: "This mindless act has caused thousands of pounds worth of damage and delayed the construction of a centre which is being built to benefit the local community.

"Anyone who may have seen suspicious behaviour in the area, or who recognises the description of the suspect, is asked to get in touch with us as soon as possible."

Anyone with information has been asked to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 0407 of 18 May, or give information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.