Highland Council 'bans' staff use of old laptop computer models after fire at Park Primary School; Scottish Fire & Rescue Service investigating the Invergordon fire but council believes it may have started in an old laptop computer and is advising all staff not to use them 'until further notice'

STAFF use of old laptop computers is to be 'banned' by Highland Council "until further notice" after a malfunction in one is thought to have sparked today's devastating blaze at an Easter Ross school.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service personnel are busy investigating the cause of the fire, which gutted Park Primary School in Invergordon this morning.

But Highland Council understands the fire may have started in an old laptop and it is issuing advice to staff to avoid their use while investigations continue.

A spokesman for the council said: "We are awaiting the outcome of Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s investigation into the fire, but we understand it might have originated from an old lap-top.

"As a precaution we are asking all staff using these older models not to use them until further notice."

The temporary 'ban' was confirmed as the council announced plans for pupils to be taught in temporary accommodation within Invergordon Academy.

It said plans were under way to provide temporary school accommodation within the academy for pupils and staff affected by the fire – with arrangements set to be in place "before the end of the week".

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