Police inquiries are continuing into allegations of sexual assault of children at a Highland nursery.
Mark MacLennan appeared on petition at Fort William Sheriff Court following a police investigation into allegations that youngsters have been abused.
The Crown Office confirmed he had been charged under section 20 of the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009.
It is understood the 28-year-old, whose bail address was given as in the Stirling area, was involved in running the facility.
He made no plea and was released on bail after a brief hearing. It is believed an investigation was launched due to concerns over one child, but after the initial report at least one other alleged victim has now been identified.
Parents of all children at the nursery have been contacted. Letters from the nursery's management were sent to them in strict accordance with guidance from the police, whose officers have already visited several homes to interview parents.
Sheriff Raymond McMenamin agreed to MacLennan being allowed bail at the request of local solicitor Hamish Melrose. A police spokeswoman confirmed inquiries were continuing.
David Ross
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