Son started fire which caused £200k of damage to father's business

A 35-YEAR-OLD company director who worked for his father set fire to the firm's premises, causing more than £200,000 of damage. Shortly after the blaze, the company went into administration.

Sunrite Blinds at Newhailes Industrial Estate, Musselburgh, following the blaze. Picture: Greg Macvean

Edgar Colliander of Sheriff Park, Edinburgh, pleaded guilty to setting fire to cardboard packaging at the premises of Sunrite Blinds at Newhailes Industrial Estate, Musselburgh, on January 25 last year, causing extensive damage to items and goods inside the premises and to the structure of the building.

Fiscal Depute Ann MacNeill told Sheriff Frank Crowe at Edinburgh Sheriff Court that the firm was set up by Colliander’s father in 1979, and employed 42 people at two sites. Ms MacNeill said during 2014, the company experienced some financial difficulties.

Neighbours saw smoke coming from the factory premises and dialled 999. CCTV showed the accused at the factory minutes before the blaze.

When Colliander was questioned, he admitted starting the fire. Ms MacNeill said the cost of the fire to the insurance company was £237,764.

Sheriff Crowe deferred sentence for reports, including a psychological assessment.