PUPILS have returned to classes at a Clydebank school after a 'bomb hoax' forced an evacuation.

Youngsters and staff were taken from Kilbowie Primary to The Hub nearby while police and the fire service investigated.

Everyone is safe and accounted for, confirmed emergency services, and pupils were allowed back later to continue their day.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "Police were called to an incident believed to be a malicious call at a school in West Dunbartonshire. A search was carried out in conjunction with the local authority, and pupils have now returned to school. Enquiries are continuing."

A spokesman for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said: "We have crews assisting the police at the school. The firefighters helped to ensure the building was safely evacuated and that everyone has been accounted for. There has been no sign of fire but our crews will remain at the scene for as long as they are needed.”

The police cordon was removed mid afternoon.

A council spokeswoman said: "Police and fire services are on site at Kilbowie Primary School due to an ongoing incident. We have taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of all our children. Parents have been informed."

The hoax was simultaneous to two other incidents in Campbeltown and Govan following a spate of false alarms earlier this week.

There were calls to Dunrobin Primary School in Airdrie, North Lanarkshire, Canberra Primary School in East Kilbride, Carluke Primary School and Donfoot Primary School in Ayr. Perth High School was also affected.