There were dramatic scenes on the shore of Loch Eck this morning (Tuesday July 7) when a suspected gas explosion in the kitchen of the Coylet Inn started a fire.  

The 17^th Century coaching  inn, which has been run by the current family for more than three years, is a well-known and well-loved local attraction.

The kitchen has been totally destroyed, and there is smoke damage throughout the premises. Two members of staff were taken to hospital with burn injuries.

A clearly shocked and devastated owner, Craig Wilson, could barely comment about the disaster. “I have no words. I just don’t know what to say,” he told the Standard.

It will be months before the Inn is able to open again, a huge loss to the owners, to the local community and to the tourists who visit. More in Friday's print edition.