A SENIOR police officer has asked for a meeting with a coroner battling with a backlog of inquests amid criticism from bereaved families.

Responding to complaints that inquests take too long to be held, Teesside Coroner Michael Sheffield said Cleveland Police decided the number of coroner's officers.

He said that despite making regular representations to the force it was not until March last year that there was "any significant improvement'' in staff numbers.

Della Cannings, acting deputy chief constable, said: "I would like an early constructive meeting with HM Coroner for Teesside to address such problems."

She said it was "disappointing'' that the coroner had not discussed his views with the police before releasing a statement.

Ms Cannings added: "It has been our aim to modernise the Coroner's Officers department, making maximum use of available technology. This has not been allowed and as he retains direction and control over the staff such action cannot be taken without his agreement.

"There is still insufficient time given for the holding of inquests, a problem that has existed for a number of years. Demand for statements from numerous witnesses could be avoided in many cases, cutting the court time needed and streamlining what is a traumatic affair for the families involved.

"The coroner's practice of cancelling inquests and available dates for inquests at short notice only adds to delays. Finally, there is the problem of a shortage of pathologists and that, too, is a matter for the coroner to address.''

Redcar MP Vera Baird tabled a parliamentary question about the delays after constituents waited 19 months for a full inquest into the death of their 13-year-old daughter.

Mr Sheffield could not be contacted last night.