Police are appealing for information after a historic claymore sword was stolen from a museum in the Small Isles.
The sword was removed from Canna House on the Isle of Canna. It is believed to have been taken some time between Wednesday, June 6 and Saturday, June 9.
The 7ft sword – which dates back to the 17th century – is described as a two handled broadsword with a double edged blade, a wooden grip and a stamped fleur de lys.
Constable Neil Davies said: “Incidents like this are extremely unusual in the Small Isles and I can assure people we are working to establish what has happened to the sword.
“We would like to speak to anybody with information which could help with our enquiries.
“There is no indication that entry was forced to the museum so anybody who was at Canna House over this period may have information which could assist us.”
Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference NP2758/18, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Canna has been in the care of the National Trust for Scotland since 1981 when it was gifted to the National Trust for Scotland in 1981 by Gaelic scholar John Lorne Campbell, who lived there with his wife Margaret Fay Shaw. As well as its rich cultural heritage, the island is renowned for its seabirds and boasts puffins, razorbills and Manx shearwaters. There are also sea eagles and golden eagles.
National Trust for Scotland’s Operations Manager for the Islands, Alan Rankin commented on the theft: “We are very concerned that this significant piece from Canna’s collection appears to have been stolen.
“It’s been an important part of the house’s rich and unique collection for decades.
“We are doing all we can to support the police with their enquiries and would urge anyone with any information to contact Mallaig Police Station.”
There are currently 18 residents on the island.