A five-year-old schoolboy pulled out a knife in front of his class.

A teacher alerted police after the child was caught with the blade at a primary school in Aberdeen.

Officers said it was not possible to consider charging the youngster following the incident on February 22 due to the boy being under the age of criminal responsibility.

It is understood the pupil brought the knife from home.

Support is being offered to those affected by the incident.

Sergeant Craig Murray said: "We work closely alongside our partners in education to ensure our schools and communities are safe places to learn.

"One such incident in our schools and communities is one too many and we have established a multi-agency response plan which includes a prompt assessment and follow-up to any incident.

"This focuses on the support and welfare of all those involved.

"Young people need to understand that even if they never intend on using a weapon, carrying one could result in unthinkable consequences, not to mention a potential criminal record."

He added: "There is no justifiable reason for ever carrying one and whether or not the intention is to use it is absolutely irrelevant. Ignorance is not an excuse and this is certainly not a game.

"Prevention and education are absolutely critical and I would urge parents and guardians to talk to young people about the dangers of carrying a weapon to ensure they understand and appreciate the harsh reality of what could happen."

An Aberdeen City Council spokesman said: "We are aware of an incident in which an infant pupil brought a small knife to school.

"Appropriate measures were taken in line with our comprehensive policies and procedures."