A DETAINEE who claims he was assaulted in a police cell is suing a North-East police force for damages.

Darren Watson claims that, when he continually buzzed from his cell in Stockton police station for a blanket and a toilet roll, in December 1996, PC Paul Thrackray and civilian custody assistant Simon Smethurst assaulted him.

He was charged with two offences of assault, which were later discontinued.

Mr Watson, 32, of Queens Drive, Billingham, took his case to Middlesbrough County Court yesterday to seek damages for assault and malicious prosecution from Cleveland Police. The force has denied liability.

Ian West, for Mr Watson, said he had been arrested by the police for theft and handling stolen goods involving motor vehicles. He was checked by a doctor and had no complaint other than indigestion.

But after a visit to the magistrates' court, Mr Watson was returned to the police station and found the cell he was in had no blanket or toilet roll, said Mr West. Mr Watson requested the items and, when they did not arrive, he continuously pressed the buzzer.

Mr Watson alleges that PC Thrackray and Mr Smethurst pushed him to the floor and twisted his arms behind his back. He also suffered scratching from fingernails.

Mr West said the two said it was Mr Watson who was aggressive and assaulted them.

The case continues.