A GLASGOW nurse is to appear before a professional standards body on child sex abuse charges.

Rhona Sharman is alleged to have taken indecent photographs and videos of a child, engaged in sexual activity with the child and encouraged the child to participate in sexual activity with her husband, Douglas.

She was suspended from her post two years ago by the Nursing and Midwifery Council after being charged by police alongside her husband.

She is also alleged to have sent indecent texts to the child, supplied the child with alcohol and caused the child to be present while engaging in sexual actitity.

The offences are said to have been carried out between July 23and October 23, 2011 while she was working as a staff nurse with NHS Lothian.

The alleged incidents, involving a child aged over 13, are said to have taken place outside work.

On October 28, Sharman was charged by Strathclyde Police, who then notified the Royal College of Nursing and the NMC. Since she was bailed by police, Sharman has not carried out any clinical duties.

The pair appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court where they were charged with a number of sexual offences and released on bail.

The Crown Office said based on the available evidence further proceedings will only be taken against Douglas Sharman at this time.

However, Rona Sharman could still be struck off by the NMC because a guilty verdict relies on a balance of probability. In criminal proceedings there must be proof "beyond reasonable doubt".

She is due to appear before the NMC from April 7 and April 11. The nurse has previously denied any wrongdoing.

caroline.wilson@ eveningtimes.co.uk