AN internal investigation has found no evidence of the bullying alleged to have taken place at a North-East council.

Employees at Chester-le-Street District Council complained to union bosses about harassment at work.

But personnel, equalities and internal communications spokesman Councillor Simon Westrip said the claims could not be substantiated.

The inquiry came after Terry Scarr, a regional organiser for the GMB union, highlighted his concerns. He said bullying was the cause of the authority's high staff turnover, but nothing was being done to sort the problem.

But Coun Westrip told a meeting of the full council: "I would like to assure the council that I have looked into his allegations that there is widespread bullying and harassment resulting in high staff sickness and turnover.

"I can find no evidence to support these assertions.

"I would like to be more specific, but unlike Mr Scarr I wish to respect the dignity of our employees as it is important that staff have confidence in this process."

The investigation followed the publication of a report by the Audit Commission in which the council was criticised for having poor leadership and a high staff turnover.

The report said it had a number of human resources issues including high levels of sickness.

Coun Westrip said the council was taking positive steps to remedy any bullying that may have taken place in the past.