Owners of a local restaurant have been left feeling "extremely hurt" after they were targeted by thieves over the Easter weekend.
The Cavaliere Ristorante and Wine Bar in Dalkeith woke to the disappointing news on Saturday morning, after those responsible stole a number of expensive items.
A part of the community for over half a century, staff at the eatery took to social media after discovering images of the thieves on their CCTV.
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Desperate to catch the "rats", they explained a number of expensive bottles had been stashed, from wines and prosecco to Moet champagne.
In an appeal to local customers, they said on Saturday: "Unfortunately at approx 7.10am, the cavaliere had an infestation of “RATS”!
"The vermin broke in through our terrace area, and helped themselves to a substantial amount of alcohol. Thankfully there was no one in the premises at this time, and no one was hurt.
"We are extremely hurt and saddened that someone thinks it is ok to violate our space like this.
"We have been a part of the Dalkeith community for over 50 years, and have always felt safe in our premises.
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"If anyone has any information, or noticed anything untoward between 7.00am-8.00am please get in touch. Also if any of the local businesses or community are offered any of the following to purchase please let us know:
Top label vodkas
Malt whiskies
Prosecco
Botegga Prosecco
Bacardis
Italian champagne
Moët
Bollinger
Italian wines
"Stay safe and be vigilant."
Responding to the news, many local residents were quick to share their frustration for the restaurant, with one person replying: "The Cavalier is a Respected Family establishment within Dalkeith! Absolutely disgusting that anyone would go to that level."
Another said: "Awful, really feel for you, last thing you all need."
Edinburgh Live contacted Police Scotland for comment.
