AMOTHER whose teenage daughter took an overdose of painkillers after being bullied at school is suing a council over her death.

Nicola Raphael, 15, from Kirkintilloch, killed herself after she was taunted by fellow pupils at Lenzie Academy.

Her mother, Rona, has now begun a court action for pounds-20,000 against East Dunbartonshire Council for failing to ensure her child's safety, and causing or contributing to her death.

Her daughter ended her life after she had stones and missiles thrown at her and endured taunts almost every day.

The council is defending the action and claims it met all of its duties towards Nicola.

Mrs Raphael initially failed to get legal aid to bring her civil case before the court, but aid has now been granted and the case was called at Glasgow Sheriff Court yesterday.

A spokeswoman for East Dunbartonshire Council, said: "As court proceedings are in progress it would be inappropriate to comment at this time."