An investigation has been launched after a blaze destroyed the wing of an Aberdeenshire primary school.
The blaze at Kinellar Primary, in Blackburn, has badly damaged the nursery and a primary one class.
About 30 firefighters tackled the flames after receiving the call at about 2.15am.
Sergeant Sandra Crighton said: “Inquiries are at an early stage and we are working jointly with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to establish the cause of the fire.
“The loss of such a key building within the local community is distressing for a number of people, in particular the pupils, parents and staff of the school.
“Until the ongoing examinations of the building and scene are completed, we are keeping an open mind as to the cause, but I would still appeal to anyone who was in the area around the time was discovered, or earlier that night, to come forward.”
Aberdeenshire Council’s chief executive Jim Savage shared close up images of the damage online.
What a start to the New Year! Team on site at @Aberdeenshire Kinellar Primary ? pic.twitter.com/HkUOVzuJQ8
— Jim Savege (@jimsavege) January 1, 2016
However, a spokeswoman for Aberdeenshire Council confirmed the school would still reopen as planned on Wednesday.
She said: “Part of the building serving nursery and primary one classes has been damaged.
“This will not affect teaching and the school will be made safe for re-opening on Wednesday, January 6. We thank the community for its support and further information will be issued directly to parents.”
Anyone with information should call 101.