Bailey Gwynne's family thanks wellwishers for support after school death

The family of Bailey Gwynne have thanked people for the support they have received after viewing floral tributes left at the school where the teenager was fatally stabbed.

Relatives of the 16-year-old made a private visit to Cults Academy in Aberdeen over the weekend.

The school reopened today for the first time since the incident last Wednesday.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, the teenager's family said: "Thank you for all your help. Your kinds words and the lovely things you have left for Bailey.

"It means a lot and it would have meant a lot to Bailey.

"For all of you that were part of his life, however big or small, thank you for being there."

They have previously paid tribute to the fifth-year pupil, describing him as their "beloved boy" and saying "our hearts have gone with him".

As pupils returned to classes this morning, Scotland's First Minister said she hoped it would be the start of the healing process.

Nicola Sturgeon was in Aberdeen today for a meeting with police and council leaders.

Speaking afterwards she said: "It was important for me to come to Aberdeen today to express to the community my sympathies and condolences following the tragic death of Bailey Gwynne last week.

"During the meeting I was also able to pledge whatever support or assistance the Scottish Government can offer to the council and the police at this difficult time.

"I have been incredibly impressed with everyone involved with this incident and how they have dealt with this situation in a very dignified way.

"With the pupils starting back at Cults Academy, I have heard how the Council's focus is now on getting the young people, as far as possible, back to a sense of normality.

"I have also been reassured that the appropriate support services are in place for the pupils."

Aberdeen City Council has already said measures have been put in place to help pupils, families and staff affected on their return.

Leader Jenny Laing, said: "I was pleased to meet the First Minister in Aberdeen today and provide an update on the tragic events of last Wednesday and the response from the council and the school.

"This is an incident that clearly had an impact far beyond Cults and Aberdeen, and we welcome the offer of support from the Scottish Government at this time."

Floral tributes left outside Cults Academy have been moved from the gates of the school to a private courtyard where pupils can pay their respects and special assemblies were due to be held.

Hundreds of Bailey's friends and fellow students also attended a vigil at Cults Parish Church on Thursday night, where candles were lit and messages of condolence written.

A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with murder and remanded in custody.

He was also charged with having a blade or point on school premises and is expected to appear in court again on Friday.

Speaking outside the school gates today, Gayle Gorman, director of education and children's services at Aberdeen City Council, said: "The children and staff of Cults Academy have returned to school this morning. The school is calm, settled and reflective.

"There have been a number of assemblies, where we have spoken to the students about their feelings, allowed them to reflect and explained how we will support them across this week, and the weeks and months ahead."

She said a book of remembrance has been opened for pupils and she also expressed thanks to those who have offered support and condolences.