AN investigation has been launched after a man died while in custody at a police station.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) will manage the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Darren Bennett, 25, from Stockton, at the town's police station on Monday night.

Mr Bennett was taken into custody for his protection having been found on the Princess Diana Bridge, over the River Tees, by police at about 7.40pm.

He was found collapsed in his cell at 9.15pm. Paramedics were called and he was taken to hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 10pm.

Cleveland Police referred Mr Bennett's death to the IPCC and two IPCC investigators have attended the scene to assess the case.

On the basis of the assessment, Nicholas Long, an IPCC commissioner for the North-East, has decided the investigation will be managed by the IPCC, using officers from an external force. Mr Long will oversee the investigation.

He said: "A death in custody is always a tragedy and my thoughts are with Mr Bennett's family and friends at this difficult time. I have offered to meet his parents to explain our role in the investigation."

A post-mortem examination was due to be done yesterday.