THIEVES have stolen bottles of whisky and staff tips in a break-in at a popular restaurant in Largs.

The incident was discovered by staff at Deli Il Cardo when they arrived to open up the premises the next morning.

The News understands that it is the third time since Deli Il Cardo opened in 2016 that it has been targeted by thieves, but the first time it has happened under the current ownership.

The incident, which happened overnight on April 27-28, was mentioned in the monthly crime report provided by Police Scotland to members of Largs Community Council.

A spokeswoman for Deli Il Cardo confirmed the incident, which happened hours after a function at the premises, and said a CCTV camera was also removed from the building.

She said that a number of more expensive bottles were left behind, suggesting those behind the incident may not have been experienced theives.

She added: "It was a real shame as it had been a very busy weekend with the function and there were a lot of staff tips stolen."

Deli Il Cardo say that they have now updated their security as a result of the incident including the installation of more crime prevention measures.

Police told Largs Community Council that the incident was still undetected and that they are appealing for information from the public. 

If you can help the police, contact 101, or go to the Contact Us section of the Police Scotland website.