A MAN has appeared in court after an alleged breach of security at a Saltcoats school.

The man allegedly entered St Anthony’s Primary School on Friday afternoon and took his child from a classroom.

Police were called and he was later apprehended in a nearby park and held in custody to appear at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court.

He was charged with a breach of the peace and on Monday pled not guilty. He is set to face trial in early 2020.

Sources told the Herald that staff at the school contacted all parents and guardians following the incident and that they were assured that there was no risk to pupils.

The man was bailed pending the trial and has been ordered not to go within 50 metres of the school.

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “As court proceedings are ongoing, it would be inappropriate for us to comment at this stage.”