A gang of youths allegedly tried to gauge a nine-year-old boy's eyes out at a school.

The assault, involving a child with learning difficulties, happened on the grounds of a school in Garioch, Aberdeenshire, on Wednesday night.

The youngster was taken to hospital following the attack, which involved up to four boys outwith school hours.

A relative of the boy said the youths tried to "gouge" the youngster's eyes out.

Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

Constable Mark Hammond said: "Fighting in the school ground is relatively uncommon in this area but unfortunately, from time to time, it does happen and occasionally it can result in more serious consequences for those involved.

"We will continue to work with the children, their families and our partners in education and elsewhere to help those involved make better choices in the future and reduce the risk of them becoming involved in similar incidents."