Two dead in luxury hotel fire on banks of Loch Lomond

Two people have died in a fire at a five-star hotel on the banks of Loch Lomond, Police Scotland have said.

More than 200 guests were evacuated from the Cameron House hotel when the blaze broke out just before 7am on Monday.

One person was pronounced dead at the scene and another died later in hospital.

Two adults and a child, believed to be from the same family, are being treated in hospital for injuries.

Firefighters used an aerial platform to beat back flames on the roof of the hotel and also carried out searches in the building, treating some guests at the scene for smoke inhalation.

Officers have described "extensive damage" to the five-star hotel, which dates back to the eighteenth century.

The cause of the fire is not yet known, but it is believed to have broken out within the main building.

Cameron House's website has posted a notice asking its customers to remain patient, and warning arriving guests that it will be closed for at least two days.

In response to the fire, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: "This is absolutely dreadful news. My heart goes out to the loved ones of those who have died, and to all those affected."

Ms Sturgeon also paid tribute to the "brave firefighters and emergency services."

One of Scotland's most famous hotels, the resort is surrounded by 100 acres of woodland and has two golf courses, a luxury spa and a Michelin starred restaurant.

Former British prime ministers Sir Winston Churchill and Sir Anthony Eden both stayed at the hotel, which was previously the family home of 18th century Scottish novelist Tobias Smollett.

With 128 rooms and 184 timeshare lodges, a deluxe suite at the hotel with views of Loch Lomond can cost up to £850 per night.

A popular wedding venue, the hotel sold for £70m in 2015 - the second time it had changed hands in just 12 months.