A COMPLAINT about a North-East police force has been made by its former chief constable.

Allegations by Sue Sim about Northumbria Police are being investigated by West Yorkshire Police.

It is understood the independent probe concerns allegations about current chief constable Steve Ashman.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: “A complaint has been received from Mrs Sim, which is being looked at independently by West Yorkshire Police.

“It would be inappropriate for Northumbria Police to make any comment while the matter is being investigated.”

Mrs Sim, who was the first woman to lead a metropolitan force when she was made chief constable, retired from the force in June after five years in charge.

Before she retired, after 30 years of policing, the mother-of-two faced a misconduct probe after allegations were made about the way she treated senior officers working under her.

Recorder Joel Bennathan QC found she had not breached policing standards but criticised her management style and said Mrs Sim should apologise to two officers.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “We have been approached by Northumbria Police to assist in an enquiry in relation to issues raised about chief constable Steve Ashman.

“The appropriate authority in relation to this is the office of the Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner. Any questions should be directed to them.”

A spokesperson for Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Vera Baird, added: “The complainant required that an outside force be asked to conduct an inquiry into her complaint.

“Independent Police Complaints Commission guidelines have been followed.”