A MAJOR police probe is underway after callous thieves ‘ransacked’ an Inverclyde pub.

The incident happened at The Pullman in Kilmacolm some time between 11.30pm on Tuesday night and 6.30am on Wednesday morning.

Police say the culprits broke into the pub in Station Road before going on the rampage – wrecking the inside of the bar and stealing alcohol and money.

Detective Constable Sharon Crawford of Greenock CID says the total cost of the damage and the stolen goods amounts to a four figure sum.

She told the Tele: “Extensive damage was caused within the pub.

“It was ransacked throughout and money and a large quantity of alcohol was taken.

“The cleaning staff who came to work on Wednesday morning noticed that the premises had been broken into and alerted management, who contacted police.

“This resulted in the pub being closed all day on Wednesday through until later that evening.

“The staff were dismayed by the damage and also by the fact that a day’s takings were lost.” Kilmacolm councillor David Wilson, who is a ‘fairly regular customer’ at the pub, says the incident is of significant concern.

He said: “I’m worried about any break-in in the village because when you get one break-in, you tend to get others.

“However I’m quite sure that the wardens and the police are now keeping a close eye on the pub to make sure there is no repeat.” A spokeswoman for the owners, Sizzling Pubs, said: “Thankfully no one was injured during the robbery and we will continue to help and assist the police with their investigation.” Police have appealed for anyone who was in the area around the time, or who saw anything or anyone suspicious, to telephone Police Scotland on 101.