Sandwiches are back on the menu for schoolchildren in Aberdeen after the city council overturned a decision to ban the lunchtime favourite.

Aberdeen City Council faced a backlash earlier this week after it emerged the humble sandwich had been taken off school canteen menus - owing to new EU labelling rules.

The row intensified when it emerged councillors and staff were still being offered sandwiches at the city's Town House.

But yesterday the city council's chief executive Angela Scott revealed on her blog that the ban had been lifted while a further review was carried out.

She said: "A further review is now being undertaken to look at how we might balance the requirements of attractive food choices, health eating criteria and food labelling regulations.

"While this review is undertaken the sandwich option will return to the school lunch menu."

Sandwiches were taken off menus at all Aberdeen City Council run schools last month. Many parents were angry over the lack of consultation on the change.

Unite trade union regional organiser Tommy Campbell claimed union members faced disciplinary action if they tried to offer sandwiches to the children.

Yesterday the union claimed the U-turn was a "victory" for the sandwich.

Mr Campbell said: "We welcome this decision. Common sense has prevailed."

A new EU directive comes into force next month forcing food firms to provide information on potential allergens found in products.