THE former deputy headteacher of a Weston-super-Mare primary school has been arrested on suspicion of owning indecent child images and trying to incite a child to take part in sexual activity online.

David Jenkins worked at Mead Vale Primary School but resigned his position in November.

An investigation was first launched back in June last year, after school staff raised concerns with North Somerset Council over suspected inappropriate contact with former pupils.

The Mercury understands Mr Jenkins carried on working at the school until the summer holidays, but was then suspended and did not return in September.

Mr Jenkins left the school permanently in November.

In December, he was arrested on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children and inciting a child to commit a sexual act online.

Officers say they have found no evidence of any alleged victims being connected with the Worle school.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed: “A 51-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of possession of indecent images of children and inciting a child to commit a sexual act online.

“We can confirm the man arrested was formerly a member of staff at a North Somerset school but is no longer employed in the education sector.

“The arrest follows a lengthy investigation which began in June 2015 when the school raised concerns with the local authority about online contact with former pupils.

“We’re working closely with the affected school and the local authority as this inquiry progresses. Parents of children at the affected school will be notified directly.”

“At this time our investigation does not involve any offences of physical sexual assault and we have not identified any victims connected with the school.

“The man remains on police bail until March 2016 pending further enquiries, with conditions including not to contact anyone connected with the school; not to have unsupervised contact with children and not to contact any child online.”

Council officers were yesterday (Wednesday) making arrangements to inform parents at the school of Mr Jenkins’ arrest.

A spokesman for the authority said: “We are co-operating with the police and are offering support to the school and school community while the police carry out their investigation.”