A number of teenagers from a children's home are being questioned by police after pop star Ricky Ross's cat was found dead in a washing machine.

The pet drowned as it went through a wash cycle at the Glasgow residential home. The killing follows a reported dispute between the home and the former Deacon Blue frontman who lives near by.

Police yesterday confirmed they were investigating a complaint by Ross, following the discovery of the drowned cat on Monday, by a member of staff at Park Lodge Children's Home in Calderwood, Newlands.

It is understood there had been an argument between the singer and some residents of the home prior to the incident. The children's home houses six teenagers between the ages of 13 to 16.

Ricky Ross, who is married former Deacon Blue backing singer Lorraine Ross, is said to be distraught over the killing of his pet.

''My husband and I have nothing to say at present,'' Lorraine Ross said. ''We are considering whether or not to make a statement to the Press, but neither I or my husband will make any comment at the moment.''

The back garden of the Ross house backs on to the rear garden of the children's home. A member of staff at the home said: ''We have been asked to make no comment and refer all inquiries to our head office.''

Glasgow City Council spokesman John Brown said he was not aware of any specific dispute involving Park Lodge and Mr Ross, but said there had been some difficulties in the past between local residents and the home.

He said: ''I believe Mr Ross had been very understanding of the need for a children's home in that vicinity. We are looking into this incident, and we are helping police with their enquiries.

''In any area where there is a children's home, there are difficulties from time to time with the local residents. That is the nature of having a number of children together in the one establishment.''