Police inquiry into ‘sexual assault’ at primary school.

Alleged incident said to have taken place at end of last year

An Angus primary school is at the centre of a major police inquiry after an allegation that a pupil there was the subject of a serious sexual assault.

Police have confirmed they have launched an investigation in Arbroath and it is understood a secondary school pupil has been accused of carrying out the alleged attack.

For legal reasons, the school cannot be named.

The ongoing inquiry is believed to relate to an incident said to have happened at the end of last year.

However, concerns have been raised that the alleged victim is continuing to come into contact with other pupils who may have a connection to the case.

Local councillors said they were shocked to learn of the matter, and some parents have expressed concern over a perceived lack of action, although suggestions of a widespread boycott of the primary are unfounded.

A police spokesman said: “Police Scotland can confirm that it has received a report of serious sexual assault in Arbroath.

“As this is an ongoing investigation it would be inappropriate to comment further on the inquiry.”

“Our investigations are always victim focused and victim led,” the spokesman added.

“Our specially trained, dedicated officers work closely with a range of partners to ensure the right support is available where and when it is needed.”

Angus Council said it would be inappropriate to comment in view of the ongoing police inquiry.

Arbroath East and Lunan Conservative councillor Derek Wann, vice-convener of children and learning, said: “I am shocked and deeply concerned to hear about this extremely distressing situation.

“It is vital that the council gives all the assistance required to the police and other relevant authorities.”

Independent David Fairweather said: “It is utterly sickening, and I want to assure people that everything that can be done to assist the investigation will be done.”

At the school gates yesterday afternoon, parents expressed anxiety about the handling of the situation.

“This is supposed to have happened before the end of last year but it has been the talk at the gates this week,” said one mum.

“I think the teachers had a meeting, but the parents haven’t been told anything. I spoke to the school myself because I wanted to know what was going on.

“The boys who are supposed to be involved are in the older primary years, but there are things like a buddy system in the school which brings older pupils into contact with the youngest children, so that’s why I wanted more information and why we should have been informed.

“I wouldn’t say my mind is completely at rest and I think other parents are concerned, but I haven’t heard about a lot of folk keeping their children off school, I think that was something on a (social media) page,” she added.

It is vital that the council gives all the assistance required to the police and other relevant authorities. COUNCILLOR DEREK WANN