'Well-established' fire damages Ballachulish Primary School

An early morning blaze has damaged Ballachulish Primary School in Lochaber.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said it was alerted at 12:40 and six appliances were sent to extinguish a "well-developed" fire.

The school is closed for the October holidays. Highland Council said alternative arrangements would have to be made for pupils when they returned to school.

Head teacher Mary Evans said the fire was "horrible news" for pupils, parents and staff.

The school is in Ballachulish, near Fort William.

Evans said: "Our school is so much more than a building. It is the children, families and staff who make it the special place it is.

"Whatever challenges we may face, I know that the strength and kindness of our school community will help us through them together."

She added: "I extend our thanks to the neighbours who first raised the alarm and to all from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews for their amazing efforts to tackle the fire and make the site safe."

A spokesperson for SFRS said: "Operations control mobilised six appliances to the scene to extinguish a well-developed fire affecting a school building.

"There were no reported casualties and crews left the scene at 09:57 after ensuring the area was made safe."