Police Scotland's chief constable has been given an further month of leave while he is investigated by a watchdog.

Phil Gormley is the subject of three separate inquiries into allegations of gross misconduct.

He has repeatedly refused to step aside but took a temporary leave of absence in September.

The Scottish Police Authority has now extended that by another month until early November.

The complaints against Mr Gormley are understood to centre on allegations of bullying.

The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner, which is leading all three inquiries, said the allegations would amount to gross misconduct if proven.

Mr Gormley took over as chief constable following the departure of Sir Stephen House, who resigned in 2015 amid controversies over armed policing and the deaths of a couple on the M9.

Deputy chief constable Iain Livingstone has assumed responsibility for Police Scotland's daily operations.

Mr Gormley has not been suspended by Police Scotland and remains chief constable.

He denies the allegations against him and previously said he intended to return to work.