School shock over 'bullying suicide'

Police will prepare a report for the procurator fiscal on the death

Staff and pupils at a Dundee school have expressed their shock at the suicide of a 15-year-old girl who killed herself after reportedly being bullied.

Police are investigating the death of Marianne Shanks - a fourth year pupil at the privately run Dundee High School - after reports she had complained to friends about being verbally abused.

She was found hanged at her home on a remote farm in Perthshire late on Sunday night.

The police would not comment on the bullying allegations, but have confirmed they are continuing to investigate and will send a report to the procurator fiscal.

Staff and pupils are absolutely devastated about this and our thoughts are with the family Dundee High School spokeswoman

Marianne had complained to friends that she was regularly subjected to verbal abuse, it has been reported.

The school said it operates a very clear and strict anti-bullying policy.

A spokeswoman said: "Staff and pupils are absolutely devastated about this and our thoughts are with the family.

When asked about the allegations of bullying she added: "The police investigation is not just focusing on bullying.

"As far as I'm aware, this is an investigation that is implemented whenever there's a tragedy like this."

A statement from Marianne's parents, David, 47, and Dorothy-Anne, 46, issued by Tayside Police, said: "We are devastated at the loss of our only daughter, Marianne Elizabeth, who brought so much happiness to the family in the time that we shared with her.

'Difficult time'

"It is a very difficult time for all members of our family and we would ask that members of the media would now allow us to grieve in private."

The funeral of the schoolgirl, who had two brothers, will be held at Perth Crematorium on Friday.

Tayside Police Inspector Gordon Nicoll said that a report had been sent to the procurator fiscal and allegations that she had been bullied would be part of their continuing inquiry.

The family found it particularly distressing that Marianne - who had never sought attention - was now the centre of a great deal of publicity, he said.