NORTHWICH police have launched a full investigation into claims of racism in their force.

Last week, we revealed the story of Ben Kershaw, a black student from Hartford who claims his car has been stopped over 20 times since he passed his driving test four months ago.

The head of Northwich police, Superintendent Ian Johns, pledged to launch an inquiry - which will begin when Ben and his father Tony meet police tomorrow, Thursday.

"I have personally called on any officer who has stopped Ben to speak to me," said Supt Johns.

"I am also going through the details we would have obtained during any stop check.

"But it is important, of course, that we speak to Ben and his father first, to discuss the claims and to see if they wish to make a formal complaint to the Police Complaints Authority."

Tony, who adopted the 18-year-old, said he hopes the meeting will be productive.

"I anticipate it will be a full and frank discussion," he said.

"At any rate, I will be full and frank with them, and I would expect no less back."

Ben lists over 20 occasions when he has been stopped, along with accusations that the police searched his car from top to bottom, without giving a reason, as he left a club earlier this year.

He also claims the police accused him of trying to mislead them with false information - because his name was mis-spelt on his driving licence.

Tony added: "It may not end at the meeting, but I want to remind the police that they do pride themselves on their anti-racist policy.

"That policy is why I am so concerned."

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