POLICE are investigating claims of fraud in the local election which saw Ray Mallon was reelected as Middlesbrough mayor.

Cleveland Police has confirmed it is looking into allegations that postal votes registered in the towns Clairville ward are suspicious, after being approached by a former politics lecturer.

Staff from Middlesbrough Council are helping police with their inquiries. There is no suggestion that Mr Mallon is part of the investigation.

The claims are understood to affect a number of unnamed candidates across the council ward and mayoral elections.

Middlesbrough Council added it could not comment as it was a matter for police.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "We are looking into allegations of electoral fraud.

"Middlesbrough Council are helping us with our enquiries."

In a separate matter Mr Mallon could face a Standards Board hearing amid claims he breached the authority's code of conduct.

Accusations have been made that he failed to declare his close friendship with a businessman during council meetings about the town's taxi trade.

Liberal Democrat mayoral candidate Chris Foote-Wood, is one of three people who have lodged a complaint.

Ian Parker, chief executive of Middlesbrough Council said: "Due to the status of the mayor's position there is provision for the complaints to be referred to the Standards Board for England and that is what has happened.

"The Standards Board for England will now decide whether to investigate the allegations."

Mr Mallon said he is confident he will be cleared of the claims put forward.

He said: "These complaints were made some weeks ago and have been referred to the Standards Board for England.

"If they decide an investigation should take place I am absolutely confident I will be cleared of any wrongdoing where the Code of Conduct is concerned."