A MENTAL health nurse who harassed a young female nurse with “inappropriate” late-night texts and social media messages has been struck off the register.

Hugh Nicholas commented on the woman’s appearance on Facebook, an inquiry by nursing watchdogs was told and would repeatedly text her if she didn’t reply.

The newly-qualified nurse said his behaviour made her feel uncomfortable and alerted bosses at NHS Lanarkshire.

She said the texts had started out being work-related, but started to breach professional boundaries and had affected her relationship with her boyfriend.

Mr Nicholas is also said to have sent “excessive and inappropriate texts and social media messages” to other staff and members of the public.

The young female nurse told an inquiry that if she didn’t answer within 10 to 15 minutes, he would text her again.

The incidents arose whilst Mr Nicholas was employed by NHS Lanarkshire as a community mental health nurse at Lanark Health Centre from May 6 2013 to April 30 2015.

He also left confidential patient information in an unlocked drawer, passwords unsecured and on top of his computer and medication cabinet unlocked.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council said there was “no evidence” that Mr Nicholas had shown any insight into his behaviour or submitted or remediation.

Iain Mackenzie, acting general manager of mental health services, said: “When we identify any staff competence issues they are fully investigated and dealt with in accordance with our policies and procedures which may include notifying the relevant regulatory authority.

“I can confirm that Mr Nicholas is no longer employed as a registered nurse within NHS Lanarkshire.”