A MILITARY charity has launched an internal investigation into a North-East branch.

Officials from the Royal British Legion in London set up an inquiry following complaints from within the Consett branch in County Durham.

The Northern Echo understands activities at the branch have been suspended by charity chiefs and that arbitration and mediation procedures are being put in place before they can be resumed.

In the meantime, fundraising and other matters are being administered by the its headquarters in Newcastle.

A spokesperson for The Royal British Legion said: “There are no plans to close The Royal British Legion Consett branch.

“The branch is currently under county administration whilst an internal investigation is conducted into a committee issue, and the legion’s Membership Council is in direct contact with the branch and individuals involved to agree a resolution.”