A COUNCIL has called in the police over threats made to its staff.

The highways department at Cumbria County Council, which includes traffic wardens, says it has been targeted by irate members of the public in the Copeland area.

Karl Melville, the council’s highways area manager, said that on one occasion, a member of staff had to drive an alternative car home from work out of fear of being followed by a complainant.

Mr Melville added: “We take action against certain individuals – there are those who are known to us as regular problem callers who we do not deal with any longer – but we have had to call in the police over threats to staff.”

Speaking at a meeting last week, councillors condemned the threatening behaviour.

Mike Hawkins said: “The public is entitled to comment through the proper channels, but it is absolutely unacceptable that staff are being subjected to abuse.”

Norman Clarkson added: "It is appalling that council officials have to put up with this - and any action taken against these individuals has our support."

A spokesperson for Cumbria County Council said: “Any abuse of our staff is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”