TWO people died following pursuits involving North Yorkshire Police last year - and two more died after contact with the force, according to a new report.

Figures released yesterday by the Independent Police Complaints Commission showed the number of road deaths following police chases has reached an 11-year high nationally, with 32 fatalities - up 11 on the previous year.

The figures revealed two people died after involvement in North Yorkshire Police pursuits, and two others died following contact with the force. The IPCC said Durham Police was also under investigation in connection with the two road deaths, suggesting it was a cross-border pursuit.

Assistant Chief Constable Phil Cain said: “The welfare of each and every person North Yorkshire Police comes into contact with is of paramount importance. Every precaution is taken to ensure the welfare and safety of suspects and prisoners.

“From pursuit, to the moment of arrest, right through to release from police custody, national policies and procedures are strictly adhered to. This report reflects North Yorkshire Police’s commitment to ensure the safety and welfare of suspects and prisoners.”

Mr Cain added that reports of this nature help police forces understand "opportunities to improve”.

Jason Wakeford, spokesman for road safety charity Brake, called the increase in pursuit-related deaths "deeply worrying".

He added: "We are particularly concerned to learn that none of these deaths were in response to emergencies and two-thirds of the people who died were passengers, bystanders or other road users.

"It simply cannot be worth risking innocent lives by engaging in perilous chases when trying to secure an arrest.”

Earlier this month, The Press reported how Police Federation members had been advised they “should drive in a way which is lawful and does not contravene the laws of dangerous or careless driving”, or they could face prosecution like any other driver who broke driving laws.