Former Glasgow city council leader Steven Purcell is now the subject of a criminal investigation by Strathclyde Police over allegations of drug taking and "other matters".

Mr Purcell resigned as a councillor and as leader of Scotland’s largest local authority at the beginning of March. His departure from Glasgow City Council marked the end of one of the most turbulent weeks for the authority in recent years.

The 37-year-old, who was one of the rising stars of the Labour Party, released a statement through his lawyers at the time. It said: "Steven Purcell tendered his resignation today. He did so with much sadness but with great support from friends, family and many well-wishers from every part of the city.

"Steven has accepted advice that he must now concentrate on his health and well-being. As he steps out of public life, he now wishes to be left in peace and quiet."

Mr Purcell was receiving treatment at the Castle Craig Rehabilitation clinic in Peebleshire.

A few weeks later, in an interview in The Scottish Sun newspaper, he admitted he had taken cocaine a "handful" of times since he was first offered it at a party.

A police statement said: "Strathclyde Police can confirm that following assessment of information surrounding allegations of drug taking and other matters concerning Steven Purcell that a criminal investigation is now underway. As a result it would be inappropriate to make any further comment about the investigation as this would be detrimental to any process."

A Crown Office spokesperson added: "The Area Procurator Fiscal in Glasgow has been kept fully informed by Strathclyde Police of their assessment of information and confirms that there is now an ongoing criminal investigation, the outcome of which will be reported to her in due course.
 
"It would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this stage."

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