THE head of a police driving school has been suspended after complaints from officers under instruction about his teaching style.

It is claimed John Laidlaw, 49, left some women in tears after lessons - though he also upset his male candidates.

Mr Laidlaw, 49, of Chester-le-Street, was in charge of teaching driving skills to all officers working for Durham Police.

He was removed from his post after allegations about the "style and method of training delivered".

Concerns were raised about his treatment of PCs under instruction. At least one officer had "complained about his attitude to female recruits".

It is understood that while one of the principal complainants was a woman, men had also reported their dissatisfaction about their treatment.

A police source said: "He is very much of the old school and complaints were as much about his attitude and the way he spoke to people as the techniques used.

"It is claimed some female recruits were in tears after he gave them feedback following training."

Two other police officers at the school, based at the force's HQ at Aykley Heads, Durham City, have been re-deployed and will be interviewed as part of an internal inquiry.

Mr Laidlaw, who was taken on when he retired after 30 years service with the force, was not available for comment.

A police spokesman said last night: "I can confirm the head of Durham Constabulary's Police Driving School has been suspended and an inquiry has been launched after issues were raised by staff about the style and method of training delivered.

"Concerns were expressed, in particular, about the treatment of individuals while under instruction."

About 200 officers receive training at differing levels skills during the year. This training includes the standard police driving test and the advanced police driving test. There are also specialist driving courses.

All police officers have to be assessed by the school before they get behind the wheel of a police car.

The driving school is being operated by other members of the driving instructor team, while the inquiry continues.