Charity regulator 'assesses concern' about leisure operator

Scotland's charity regulator is to assess concern about leisure operator Sport Aberdeen, BBC Scotland News has learned.

Sport Aberdeen runs more than 30 indoor and outdoor venues across the city, offering sport and physical activities.

The arms length organisation currently receives more than £4m in annual funding from Aberdeen City Council.

The Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) said it would now assess a concern raised, and will then decide if a formal inquiry is needed once that process is complete.

The charity regulator said in a statement: "OSCR has received a concern about the charity.

"In line with our standard policies and procedures, we will assess the matters raised to determine whether there are any issues for OSCR or the charity to address.

"At this stage, this does not mean that an inquiry has been opened. A decision on whether to open an inquiry will be made once the assessment has been completed."

The developments come amid recent changes at senior level, with four directors recently leaving the organisation.

Chief executive Keith Heslop was replaced in November by an interim chief executive.

Addressing the recent director departures, Sport Aberdeen said in a statement it was "very much business as usual".

When asked about the OSCR, Sport Aberdeen said it would not be making any further comment at this time.

Aberdeen City Council has also been approached for comment.