Resort director at Cameron House offers condolences to families of two guests killed in hotel blaze

A resort director has offered "deepest condolences'' to the families of two guests who died in a fire at a hotel.

More than 70 firefighters were involved in tackling the blaze at the five-star Cameron House Hotel on the banks of Loch Lomond after the alarm was raised at around 6.40am on Monday.

Police Scotland said one person died at the scene while another died at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Paisley.

Three other people, two adults and a child believed to be from one family, were taken to hospital in Glasgow for treatment and were later discharged.

Officers said the hotel has been "extensively damaged''.

More than 200 guests were evacuated while emergency services took control of the area.

Firefighters searched the building and tackled flames in the roof of the hotel from an aerial unit.

Andy Roger, resort director at Cameron House Hotel, said: "At approximately 6.40am there was a large fire at Cameron House Hotel. Emergency services were alerted and guests were evacuated to the nearby Boat House Restaurant while Scottish Fire & Rescue, Scottish Ambulance Service and Police Scotland arrived on scene.

"Tragically, the authorities have confirmed two fatalities from the fire. In addition, three individuals were transported to the local hospital, but have since been discharged. The safety and well-being of our guests, employees and neighbours is our first priority, and our deepest condolences are with the families of those affected.

"We are working closely with the authorities to determine the cause of the fire, and to provide support to our guests and the families of those affected.''

Police and fire officers are investigating the cause of the blaze.

A police spokeswoman said: "Police Scotland can now confirm two people have died following a fire at the Cameron House Hotel earlier today, Monday 18 December 2017.

"Around 0650 hours, police were called to a report of a fire at the hotel. More than 200 guests were evacuated from the building which has been extensively damaged.

"One person was pronounced dead at the scene. Four people were taken to hospital, one to the RAH who later died. A further three people were taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for treatment.

"A report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.''

Other guests were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

The hotel is a popular wedding venue and houses the Michelin-starred Martin Wishart at Loch Lomond restaurant.

In a statement on its website, Cameron House said it will remain closed to arriving guests for at least the next 72 hours.

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.

"My thanks also to our brave firefighters and emergency services.''

Nearby hotels have offered help and support for those affected by the fire.

Local MP Martin Docherty described the blaze as "dreadful news'', while Dumbarton MSP Jackie Baillie said it was "devastating''.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson MSP thanked emergency services and hospital staff and said: "This is a terrible tragedy and my thoughts go out to the families who have lost loved ones and to all those affected.'