Nun tells inquiry she beat children

A nun has admitted to an inquiry that she beat and force-fed children at orphanages.

The 77-year-old, who cannot be identified, apologised to those she “mistreated” at Nazareth House homes in Aberdeen and Lasswade, Midlothian, while giving evidence to the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry.

She worked at the Catholicrun orphanages from 1963 until 1980 and said she could lose her temper “on some occasions”, but denied a litany of other allegations made against her.

Colin Macaulay, senior counsel, said: “(One accusation says) you did punch her on the head and body, and strike her with a hair brush. Do you accept that you did that?” The nun said: “Yes.” The same replies came when Mr Macaulay asked if she had ever force-fed a child.

The inquiry continues.