Hollywood hellraiser Charlie Sheen has hit the Scottish Highlands in a madcap bid to find the Loch Ness Monster.

The 47-year-old actor flew over from the States on his private jet and based his hunt from a fairytale castle on the southern shores of the loch.

The Two and a Half Men star has made the headlines in recent months for his increasingly eccentric outbursts and wild antics but was on his best behaviour during last week’s four-day trip.

The only time Charlie got close to misbehaving was when he climbed a Nessie sculpture on a roundabout, near Inverness.

Gobsmacked onlookers watched in disbelief as he posed for pictures on top of the wooden structure before visiting the city’s Debenhams store for some retail therapy.

Charlie revealed his madcap Nessie mission on Twitter, posing for a snap in what he called his “hunting gear”, a bronze battle helmet, along with actor friend, Brian Peck.

Referring to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology - a $2 billion non-profit corporation – the caption said: “Once again MIT grant sanctioned archeologists Pekk & Sheen, rig battle gear for tonight’s sortie on the Loch Ness.”

(Image: Unknown)

And he was soon bombarded with messages from fans all over the world wishing him the best of luck with the mission.

Marilyn Halley wrote: “its about time Nessie was found!! Thanks Charlie.”

While Susie Sunshine added: “u are two great archeologists. let’s get ready for #lochness and take me with u!! :)”

Charlie and his pals stayed at the historic Aldourie Castle on the southern shores of Loch Ness, close to Inverness.

Its website says: “With its turrets, towers and setting Aldourie offers all the fairytale grandeur and glamour you need for a truly magical experience. Enjoy the adventure of the Highland’s or simply lose yourself in the mystery and folklore of Loch Ness.”

The castle’s general manager, Lavinia Turner, confirmed the group went out on the loch during their brief stay.

She said last night: “All I can say is that Mr Sheen and his party were perfect guests and thoroughly enjoyed their trip to Scotland and Loch Ness.

"They had a wonderful and relaxing time but unfortunately didn’t see any sign of Nessie although I’m sure they’ll be back in the future to try again.”

(Image: Daily Record)

One of the Highland’s best loved pipers, Dougie Watson, played the star on to his jet after posing for a picture together on the tarmac at Inverness International Airport.

The 51-year-old former Scots Guard said last night: “Charlie was a true gent and on great form and he seemed to have had a fantastic trip.

"I piped him on board with a couple of stirring marches like Scotland The Brave and Flower of Scotland.

"He had a quick chat and said he’d be back soon. I think he really loved Scotland and the relaxed atmosphere here. It would be great to see him back.”

Platoon star Charlie, who has battled crack and cocaine addiction, is no stranger to off-the-wall ideas.

He has previously claimed to be a “warlock” and a “rock star from Mars” who can cure diseases with his mind.

He was sacked from sitcom Two And A Half Men after a meltdown in 2011 and is currently involved in a bitter child support battle with ex-wife Brooke Mueller, 35.

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Read about the Loch Ness Monster in 'The Loch Ness Monster: And Other Unexplained Mysteries' from Amazon.