Five cases of beer were stolen after another break in at a Dreghorn brewery site.

Police are on the hunt after the raid on the Arran Brewery property in Main Street, Dreghorn between Wednesday, March 27 and Thursday, March 28.

The following week at around 4.30pm on Monday, April 1 a man ran off after being challenged by staff when caught within the grounds.

Police are looking to trace a man described as being between 17 and 22 years of age, 5 foot 11 in height, of slim build, with long dark brown hair and wearing a full grey tracksuit.

Arran Brewery Managing Director Gerald Michaluk said: “The brewery and bottling hall as well as several containers, a shed and a van were broken into and windows in the main building smashed.

“Five cases of beer and some odds and ends were stolen that were being used to test the shrink rap equipment but mainly it was just senseless vandalism.

“The crooks broke in on two separate occasions and even tried to break in when I was on site. I regrettably lost my temper and scared them off before the police could arrive and apprehend one of the culprits. Had I got my hands on him I would have been the one answering police questions.

“Recent advertisements for staff at Dreghorn attracted over 90 applicants of a very high quality so it is crazy that a few bad eggs are jeopardising employment opportunities.

“We continue to receive excellent support from the council and the police and I hope we can get things back on track to commission the brewery this year.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Local enquiries are ongoing into both these incidents but we would appeal to anyone with any information on those involved to contact Police Scotland by calling 101 and quoting incident reference 2656 of 1st April." 

Information can also be passed via the independent charity CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111.