A FIRE-HIT Loch Lomond hotel will reopen later this year following a devastating blaze which claimed the lives of a London couple.

Simon Midgley and Richard Dyson died in the December 2017 fire at Cameron House Hotel.

Today, hotel bosses have confirmed the hotel building, which was battered by flames for more than 24 hours, will re-open following a "careful and sensitive restoration". The hotel is now taking bookings for functions from January 2021.

Cameron House has also unveiled a glimpse of its new £17.5million extension, which will include a 7,345 square foot ballroom and 68 bedrooms, following the news of planning approval from the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority.

The ballroom has a capacity for 350 guests and more than 400 people in a theatre or reception style arrangement.

Expected to be completed by summer 2021, the extension will also include large outdoor terrace on the lower ground floor, with a separate, external space for smaller events.

Andy Roger, resort director at Cameron House, said: “The proposed extension will maximise the stunning views of Loch Lomond whilst fully respecting the architectural integrity of the original house.

"The plans include a new loch-facing ballroom and 68 bedrooms, which will adjoin the hotel’s existing leisure wing. This will bring the resort’s total offering to 208 bedrooms, including 28 spectacular suites.

“The extension will also allow us to increase the number of weddings, functions and guests we’re able to accommodate at Cameron House, and we’re confident these improvements will have a significant positive impact on the local economy.”