Police believe a horror fire at a historic 200-year-old Scots hotel was started deliberately.
Smoke was seen billowing from the roof of the former Old Mill Inn in Maryculter, Aberdeenshire, on Monday afternoon.
Fire crews raced to the scene as four appliances were sent to deal with the building that was well alight.
It is understood the former pub is about 200 years old and has previously been reported as one of Aberdeenshire's “historic” buildings.
The hotel was completely gutted by the blaze - and while a joint enquiry with the Police and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is ongoing, cops have announced tonight that the fire is believed to have been started deliberately.
Police in Aberdeenshire are appealing for information and potential dashcam footage following a fire at The Old Mill Inn on South Deeside Road, Maryculter.
Detective Constable Keith Morrison, from North East CID, said: "We’re asking for anyone who may have been in the area and witnessed anything suspicious to please come forward.
"This includes any motorists who may have potential dashcam footage which could prove useful for our investigation.
"Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting incident 2165 of 22 February.
"Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous."
