AN investigation is underway after thieves stole a bottle of whisky worth thousands of pounds from a plush hotel near Glasgow. 

The theft took place at Bishopton's Mar Hall, which is currently closed due to lockdown restrictions, in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Hotel staff who are staying there to maintain its upkeep heard noises coming from the grand hall at around 1.55am.

A 24-year-old worker went to investigate and found a man wearing a balaclava sitting on a chair at the far end of the room.

The thief, who ordered the employee not to approach or call the police, was then joined by two masked men and they escaped through an open window.

Police officers and a dog unit were sent to the scene and, while searching the ground floor of the hotel, it was discovered that an expensive bottle of Macallan whisky and a display bottle of brandy had been taken from the bar.

The retail value of the whisky is understood to be £3,500.

Police said there was also damage to the window used by the thieves to gain entry to the building.

The first suspect is described as 6ft 2ins tall, of average build and spoke with a Glaswegian accent. At the time, he was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava.

His two accomplices are both said to be around 6ft tall and of average build. They were also wearing dark clothing and balaclavas at the time.

Inspector Allan O’Hare, head of community policing for Renfrewshire, said: "If anyone has seen these men leaving the premises or in the local area around this time, please get in touch."

Anyone who can help the police with their investigation is asked to call officers on 101.