Hotelier calls for community action after break-in to Mansfield Castle Hotel in Tain causes £10k worth of damage with Neighbourhood Watch type scheme floated
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A hotelier is appealing for local councillors to set up a neighbourhood watch scheme in a bid to 'drive out' theft and vandalism, after his Tain hotel was broken into.
John Shearer, who owns the Mansfield Castle Hotel, has issued a £100 reward in exchange for information connected to a break-in at his establishment on Wednesday, February 2.
The Mansfield Hotel has been closed for the winter, and is due to re-open in March.
Mr Shearer, who also owns the Morangie House Hotel, said: "A serious amount of damage was done to the office doors and a garden wing door. With the hotel closed though, there were no valuables to be had.
"The cost of fixing the damage will run to approximately £10,000 including repairs and labour.
"It appears from social media that there is a good number of residents who know who the thieves and vandals are. Please give this information to the police."
The hotel owner is now appealing to the community and local councillors to respond pro-actively and 'stick together'.
He said: "I would suggest the local councillors look to set up a neighbourhood watch. This type of organisation is very popular in other areas.
"It is not just the cost, but the feeling of insecurity when these types of events happen.We need to protect ourselves, as the best idea is to stick together to drive out these people."
Ward councillor Derek Louden responded to Mr Shearer's call, stating his intention to speak to the police about the matter.
He said: "I was very sorry to hear about the break-in at Mansfield Castle. The damage is stated as being extensive, and that's something no-one wants to see in such a beautiful old building, one of the finest in the Royal Burgh.
"I'll investigate with the police to see if volunteers willing to set up a neighbourhood watch scheme can be found to support Mr Shearer, and residential and farming communities around the area who are vulnerable to such opportunistic attacks."
Highland police are now appealing for information. If you can help, contact police on 101, quoting incident number 1585 of Thursday, February 3.
Tip-offs can also be passed on anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
