POLICE have launched an investigation into claims that officers have been involved in a drinks scam at a North-East hotel.

The inquiry follows allegations by John Khan, owner of the Park Head Hotel, in New Coundon, County Durham, that officers from the Durham force accepted free drinks, food and cut-price rooms.

Mr Khan, who estimates he may have lost up to £50,000 over two years, contacted the Durham Constabulary headquarters after members of staff made allegations against a former employee.

Durham Police last night confirmed that a joint criminal and disciplinary investigation had been launched and that the matter had been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

The force's professional standards department is investigating. No one has been arrested and no officers suspended.

Mr Khan's claims refer to a police Christmas party at which he says senior officers were present.

He alleges they were charged £1 each for a £15-per-head buffet.

He also believes that officers used £65-a-night rooms for a few hours, without paying, to meet colleagues.

The 40-year-old businessman said: "It is disgusting, I'm convinced that lots of officers knew what was going on.

"I certainly haven't been receiving the money I should have and I want it to be investigated by an independent body who can find out exactly how much the police have been involved."

Mr Khan, who with his wife Gail runs another hotel in nearby Durham City, said: "We're building this business up to give our three children a good start and feel we've been ripped off."