BROMSGROVE District Council has been praised by the Local Government Ombudsman for the way in which it deals with complaints from the public.

The Ombudsman, Jerry White, in his 'Annual Letter' for the year 2004/5, said the council's performance in responding to inquiries by the Ombudsman was exceptional and it had presented clear and helpful responses.

He said the number of complaints he received about the authority was less than half the number he received in the previous year 2003/4 - down from 32 complaints to 15.

Council deputy leader Rita Taylor (Con-Linthurst) said: "The council realises that people will need to complain to it sometimes about things which they think it has done wrong.

"We make every effort to deal with these complaints quickly and sympathetically, and, where necessary, to explain the reasons for our actions to the people concerned. It is pleasing to see the Ombudsman has recognised our efforts in his Annual Letter," she added.

The Ombudsman said that although he found "maladministration" when he investigated one complaint, it related to events which had taken place in 2002/3, and he was complimentary about what the council did to put things right.

Mr White was also complimentary about the way in which the council settled four other complaints.

Anyone wishing to complain to Bromsgrove District Council can get details of its complaints policy in a leaflet available from the Council House, in Burcot Lane, on 01527 873232. Alternatively people can use the Customer Service Centre, in School Drive, (01527 881288), or the form can be posted to them if they request it. People can also complain on-line via the council's website at www.bromsgrove.gov.uk

If still dissatisfied after the council has considered their complaint, they can contact the Ombudsman's office on 02476 820000 or at www.lgo.org.uk or by obtaining a leaflet about Ombudsman from the Council House.