Police are investigating a school for children with additional support needs after footage emerged of a staff member using "inappropriate restraint techniques".

North Lanarkshire Council alerted authorities after discovering video evidence from Clydeview School in Motherwell.

STV News understands that a member of staff has been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation.

The footage, believed to have been recorded in June 2018, involves a "small number of pupils".

A North Lanarkshire Council spokesperson confirmed they were investigating, but added that there was "no risk" to the children attending the school.

A spokesperson said: "Video evidence has come to light showing what appears to be inappropriate use of restraint and the deployment of inappropriate restraint techniques involving a small number of pupils at Clydeview School.

"The safety and wellbeing of children in our care is our primary concern and, on being presented with this material, we took immediate steps to launch a formal investigation.

"Given the nature of some of the video evidence, we also immediately contacted Police Scotland.

"Both of these investigations are at an early stage and we will keep parents updated as they progress.

"The safety of children is paramount and we are confident that there is no risk to children attending the school."

Clydeview School caters for pupils aged from five to 12 with a wide range of additional support needs. There is also a pre-school assessment class for three to five-year-olds.

Police Scotland confirmed officers are examining the evidence as to whether a criminal offence has taken place.

A force spokeswoman said: "An investigation is under way after Police Scotland was made aware by the local authority of concerns about the conduct of staff at a school in North Lanarkshire.

"Inquiries, which are at an early stage, are ongoing."