SWINDON Council has launched an internal investigation after a number of staff were caught sending inappropriate emails, one of which included a naked person.

Three members of staff in the Swindon Services department were suspended on Friday for misuse of the council email system.

But yesterday they were reinstated at work pending inquiries.

Council leader Kevin Small (Lab, Western), said: "I have spoken to the investigating officer and the emails contained inap-propriate comments.

"Regarding a rumour about downloading porn there was one image which would be no different than page three of a well known daily tabloid newspaper.

"But what happens from here depends on the conclusion of the internal investigation."

Leader of Swindon Council's Conservative group, Mike Bawden (Old Town and Lawns), said: "I am aware there might be a problem in our Civic Offices with certain e-mails.

"A through investigation needs to take place.

"If it is proved there is a problem then it is a misappro-priation of public funds.

"And if this is the case then I will be asking for a full inquiry."

Hellen Barnes, a spokeswoman for Swindon Council, said: "Potential issues came to our attention and they warranted investigation in accordance with our normal employment procedures."