A police officer who was behind the wheel of a van that knocked down an 11-year-old girl has been cleared.

The girl suffered serious injuries when she was struck by the vehicle in Elgin, Moray, on November 26.

She later recovered and an inquiry by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) has now cleared the driver of any wrongdoing.

A PIRC spokesman said: "Following an examination of independent witness statements we have determined there is no need for any further inquiries to be made in relation to this incident.

"We have been in contact with the family to keep them informed."

Police Scotland said the van was on a routine patrol on the A941 at the time of the collision.

Following the crash, the girl's family released a statement saying she was "up and out of bed".

"We appreciate all the good wishes and support from everyone and the most important thing for us right now is to concentrate on our little girl's recovery," they added.