VIOLENT threats aimed at a headteacher of a North-East secondary school have been “resolved” following a student being reported for harassment.

A string of at least ten messages and pictures were published anonymously online and targeted staff and pupils at Hummersknott Academy, in Darlington, earlier this month.

Concerned parents and students contacted the school over the threats made using public accounts via the picture-sharing social network, Instagram.

The disturbing messages and pictures of the school, off Edinburgh Drive, were added to one account over a three-day period between Saturday, January 7, and Monday, January 9.

At least one further account was set up on Instagram, which was also reported to the school.

However, a joint investigation made in to the anonymous messages by Durham Police and Hummersknott Academy has ended with one student being linked to the accounts.

In a letter sent to parents of children attending Hummersknott Academy that has been seen by The Northern Echo, headteacher James Keating has confirmed that a student has been reported in connection with the threats.

Within the letter, Mr Keating, said: “Following a full investigation by the police, a student from the school has been reported under the offence of ‘malicious communications’.

“Durham Constabulary stress that the threats issued within the posts are beyond the capacity of the individual.

“Consequently, there is no credible threat to the school or to individuals and it is business as usual in the Academy.

“Both ourselves and the police now consider this matter resolved.”

Durham Police confirmed that the threats were being investigated at the academy that currently schools around 1,250 pupils aged 11 to 16-years-old.

Several students were spoken to in the presence of their parents within the investigation.

However, Mr Keating’s letter was circulated to parents and guardians yesterday following further meetings between school staff and investigating police officers.

In the letter, Mr Keating added: “In consultation with the police, we will be arranging for the cyber-crime unit to come into school and work with staff in reminding students about their own cyber safety and the potential consequences of social media misuse.”

The headteacher also thanked parents and pupils for their vigilance following the discovery of the Instagram posts.

Mr Keating said: “Once again, may I thank you for your quick action around the social media posts and for your continued support and patience whilst police conducted their investigations.”