A HELPLINE has been set up for parents and carers as police investigate allegations that children attending a nursery in the Fort William area were sexually assaulted.

A 28-year-old man appeared at the town's sheriff court in connection with the investigation on Tuesday.

Mark MacLennan, who is from the Stirling area, was charged under the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009, and released on bail.

The nursery has not been named by police.

Detective Chief Inspector Pamela Ross said the helpline, run by the charity Children 1st, would offer support to concerned parents. The number is 0800 028 2233.