The owner of a Loch Ness-side café has been left devastated after their weekend takings were stolen.
June Cowan, owner of the Courtyard Café in Drumnadrochit, had enjoyed her first weekend off in six months before returning to work to find her business had been broken into.
The culprits gained entry to the Drum Farm outlet between 5pm on Sunday and 8am on Monday before leaving a path of destruction in their wake and making off with a four figure sum of cash.
She said she was “utterly shocked” at the sight that greeted her upon her return.
She explained: “I had actually been off the weekend and I went in myself on Monday morning at just about 8.30am and the till was empty lying open, the drawers and the cupboards had been pulled out, emptied and ransacked and all the money was gone.
“I’m absolutely gutted, I couldn’t believe it. I was utterly shocked at the scene and also the realisation at what had happened. It’s a big loss; you just never think it will happen to you.”
With the business set to remain closed for the remainder of the week, Mrs Cowan – who opened her business just 13 months ago – has also ended up losing out on the benefits of the busy summer season.
She added: “I love it, I really do. The people, there is such a diverse collection of people that come in from all over the world, it’s great but when something like this happens its soul destroying.
“You work hard for the season and the money you earn during the season lasts you through the winter but for someone to come along and take your hard earned cash during the season, it could leave you in trouble.
“We can’t let these criminals try and dictate how we should go about our business.”
Police are now appealing for information to help trace those responsible for the break-in.
A police spokesman said: “Police Scotland is appealing for witnesses following a break-in at the Courtyard Café in Drumnadrochit.
“Anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity around the property is urged to call 101, quoting reference NN5705/19, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
