A POLICE force which has suffered a rise in the number of complaints against it wants the public to continue the trend.

There were 200 complaints made against Cleveland Police officers and staff for the period July 31 to September 30 this year.

This figure compares to 156 complaints made in 2005 and 184 made in 2006 over the same period.

But the force is keen for the public to carry on complaining about its staff despite the rise over the last three years.

Supterintendent Brian Dunn, head of the force's professional standards, said: "We encourage members of the public to come forward and make any complaint they may have.

"These will always be investigated thoroughly and professionally. This way we can continue to identify issues and improve the service we provide."

Over the same period North Yorkshire Police force recorded 109 complaints against its officers and staff.

It compares to 105 cases in 2005 and 110 in 2006 for the same period of time.

A break down of the 109 complaints shows 31 were for assault or excessive force and 56 for neglect of duty.

The force states 73 complaints were against central area staff, 88 against eastern area staff, 54 against western area staff and four against headquarters staff.

Three officers received written warnings from a superintendent due to their actions when on duty.

The figure puts North Yorkshire joint top of a mini league for complaint levels made up of similar forces.

The force is tied at the top of this mini league with Devon and Cornwall Police Force with eight complaints per 100 officers.

The figures are before North Yorkshire Police Authority's Professional Standards committee meeting tomorrow. (thurs 8) The force has declined to comment on the figures before the meeting.

North Yorkshire Police also received 86 letters of appreciation from the public.

Durham Police recorded 84 complaints against its staff made by the public over the same period.

A force spokesman said: "Complaints against the force are thoroughly investigated and when those inquiries suggest it is necessary our procedures and processes are reviewed and updated."

Northumbria Police, whose range includes Newcastle and Gateshead, recorded 158 complaints over the period.