THIRTEEN complaints have been lodged with the local government ombudsman against a council, figures reveal.

However none of the allegations, which date from May last year, resulted in maladministration judgements against Darlington Borough Council.

The figures are contained in a report to the council's cabinet, which will meet tomorrow.

In nine complaints, no maladministration was found. A further two were investigated by the ombudsman, but it was decided not to pursue the matter further.

One complaint was deemed to be outside the ombudsman's jurisdiction, and another was also dealt with satisfactorily by the authority.

The complaints were broadly spread across departments, although four related to social services.

The report suggests that six-monthly reviews of decisions made by the ombudsman should be submitted to the cabinet, and two committees.

This is to identify any trends that occur, and to inform councillors of any issues which arise