A CARLOW teacher is under investigation for allegedly sending an inappropriate photograph to an underage girl.

The man, aged in his early 40s, is believed to have sent an intimate photograph of himself to a 16-year-old girl.

The teacher works in a local secondary school.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was heavily involved in GAA in the county, both at underage and senior level.

The man has taught in the Carlow school for almost two decades, as well as having a hands-on role in several neighbouring sports clubs.

It is understood that the young girl is not a student of the school and came into contact with him outside of his role as a teacher.

Residents in the area are said to be disgusted by the alleged behaviour.

Since the graphic image came to light, the teacher faces a garda investigation and serious criminal charges. The man was seen around Carlow at the weekend.

A spokesperson for gardaí confirmed that they are “liaising with the HSE in relation to a recent child protection issue in CountyCarlow”.