Cameron House fire: Two dead and three others in hospital after blaze at luxury Loch Lomond hotel

TWO people have died and three others are being treated in hospital after a fire broke out at the luxury Cameron House hotel on the banks of Loch Lomond.

Dozens of firefighters were called to the five-star resort at around 6.40am on Monday.

Police Scotland said one person died at the scene while another passed away at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley.

The hotel is on the banks of Loch Lomond (Andrew Milligan/PA)

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

Officers said the hotel has been “extensively damaged”.

More than 200 guests were evacuated from the hotel 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.

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

Smoke could be seen across the lake (Andrew Milligan/PA) — Smoke could be seen across the loch (Andrew Milligan/PA)

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.

“Officers remain at the scene and are working with other emergency services to establish the exact circumstances of the incident.

“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.

On its website, Cameron House said the fire was within the main building.

A message read: ”We would ask all guests and customers to remain patient as we work with the emergency services to establish the extent of the damage and ascertain when we will be able to re-open.”

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.”