by Jenni Horn

A 24-per cent rise in complaints made against police has been blamed on last year's Climate Camp.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) received 862 complaints against Kent Police, a 24-per cent increase since 2007/8.

The figures have been published in the IPCC annual complaints statistics report which shows an eight-per cent rise in complaints against forces across the UK.

According to Asst Ch Cons Allyn Thomas the sharp rise could be the result of a large number of complaints recieved after Climate Camp in Hoo.

A review by the National Police Improvement Agency earlier this year ruled officers’ use of stop and search powers at the camp was “disproportionate and counterproductive”.

Mr Thomas said: "During the summer of 2008 Kent Police were involved in policing the climate camp protest in Kingsnorth which subsequently resulted in some additional complaints submitted to the force.

"While these have been dealt with by our professional standards department they have added to the figures over the last year.

“Kent Police welcomes all feedback. If that feedback results in a complaint we will investigate and take action where appropriate.

“We expect our officers and employees to maintain the highest level of professionalism and honesty at all times, both on and off duty.”

Statistics show the majority of complaints (84 per cent) were made by white people and it took the force an average of 18 days to record complaints after they had been received- nine days longer than the national average.