‘Abuse’ ballet school fees row

DANCE students are in limbo over fees they paid to a school that has closed amid allegations a teacher sexually abused pupils.

Claims of sexual misconduct led to the closure of Ballet West in Taynuilt, Argyll, in August. Police are probing allegations made by students, a senior staff member has quit and another employee has been suspended.

The allegations came to light after media inquiries were made to the school’s principal Gillian Barton, pictured. With Ballet West in liquidation, pupils have no idea if they can retrieve the fees. One dancer’s father told the BBC his daughter has been offered a place at another school but her fees – almost £10,000 – are tied up in the liquidated company.

Eileen Blackburn, of accountant French Duncan, who is dealing with the liquidation, said it was ‘too early’ to tell if there would be funds to pay creditors including those looking to have fees refunded.