COMPLAINTS about local government reached record levels this year, according to North and East Yorkshire watchdog Patricia Thomas.

The area's ombudsman, who covers the whole of Yorkshire and much of north England, received 6,588 complaints about authorities.

She said: "In 2000 to 2001 I received more complaints than ever before.

"I am pleased also to report that more complaints were determined."

Many of the complaints dealt with concerned benefit claims, education appeals or planning issues.

Official figures for the year show 69 complaints about City of York Council were determined, while North Yorkshire County Council had 60 investigated.

Selby District Council had 24 determined, Ryedale had nine, Harrogate 25 and Hambleton ten.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council was investigated for 115 complaints.

The vast majority of complaints resulted in no findings of maladministration.

Updated: 11:23 Wednesday, September 05, 2001