A MAN who attacked schoolchildren with nettles has been released on police bail.
The man in his forties was questioned after several children from Abbots Cross PS in Newtownabbey reported being stung.
The incident happened near the Doagh Road school on Wednesday.
Police confirmed that the man was arrested over "offences including common assault and possession of an offensive weapon", namely a nettle.
He has since been released on bail pending further inquiries.
Parents claimed up to 20 children were attacked with some left with large lumps on their faces and necks.
It is understood that the school issued a note to parents informing them of the arrest.
It advised parents to "document" any nettle stings their children may have sustained with their GP.
The school has made no comment but the Education Authority (EA) said it was taking the incident seriously.
A full investigation is being carried out.
"The safety and wellbeing of pupils is of the utmost importance to EA and as such the allegations will be fully and thoroughly investigated," a spokesman said.
