THE headteacher of Hawick High School has remained suspended as pupils returned to class this week following the summer break.

It is understood Kevin McClory, who has been in charge of the school for the past two-and-a-half years, faces disciplinary action following complaints over his handling of staff issues.

The 43-year-old was initially suspended six weeks ago.

And Scottish Borders Council, who have refused to discuss the reasons behind the suspension, have drafted in John Clarke from Berwickshire High to stand in at the helm.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesman told the Border Telegraph:"We are unable to comment on individual employees."

Parents at the 1,000 pupil-strong Hawick High School were informed of the developments last Friday afternoon when the local authority sent a brief text message on their groupcall system to say Mr Clarke would be temporarily leading Hawick as from Monday.

There was no mention of Mr McClory's suspension but added letters with more details would be sent out next week.

The groupcall text message read: "From 15.08.16 Mr Clarke, current headteacher at Berwickshire High School, will temporarily lead Hawick HS.

"Letters with more detail to be be issued next week."

A native of Stranraer, Mr McClory started his career as a physical education teacher at Dunbar Grammar School in East Lothian.

He took over at Hawick High School at the start of 2014 after moving from his position as depute headteacher at St Kentigern's Academy in Blackburn, West Lothian.

The post had remain unfilled since the departure of former incumbent Alan Williamson who left up take up a similar at Lasswade.

Mr McClory, who lives in Edinburgh, was unavailable for comment.