a fire which seriously damaged a school in Shotts, Lanarkshire, is being treated as suspicious. An investigation was launched by Strathclyde Fire Brigade and Strathclyde Police after the fire at Stane primary school in Torbothie Road last night. Firefighting operations were hampered by high winds and poor water supplies but the blaze was brought under control after about two hours.

Education authorities said parents should not send their children to the school today and contingency plans are expected to be announced through the local media during the day.