THE chair of governors at a Darwen primary school today confirmed that an investigation has been launched into an alleged incident involving a member of staff.

But Blackburn with Darwen Council has yet to reveal the details of the suspension following the alleged incident at Sudell Primary School in Sudell Road, two weeks ago.

Gordon Waddicor, chair of governors, said he was unable to comment but confirmed that "developments were ongoing."

And Harry Devonport, Assistant Director of Education and Lifelong Learning at Blackburn with Darwen Council, today explained how the probe will proceed.

A member of staff who is suspended could face dismissal.

The investigation follows an alleged incident at the school involving a member of staff who is believed to be a governor.

And members of the staff, governors and councillors could be called upon to contribute evidence.

Councillor Eileen Entwistle, the council's representative on the board of governors, will be involved in the investigation and is thus unable to comment, as is the head teacher Laura Pooles.

Mr Devonport went on to explain that any member of staff could face dismissal, but declined to comment about the individual case at this stage. He said: "This is a school matter at this stage and it would be inappropriate for the council to comment on a specific case .

"In general, when allegations have been made they are investigated by the headteacher with support from personnel.

"The outcome of the investigative process is heard by a panel of governors who then decide what action is necessary ranging from reinstatement with no case to answer, through oral and written warnings to dismissal."

Mr Waddicor added: "All the communication with regards to this incident is being carried out through the authority."

Ian Kendrick, assistant director of education and lifelong learning, reiterated that schools use a variety of positive strategies to ensure that a disciplined working ethos is maintained.

He said: "Strategies and sanctions are used rigorously and creatively as appropriate to each school's context.

"The headteacher and staff at Sudell are no exception and work closely with the LEA to maintain high quality educational provision and a positive ethos."