A website has been launched dedicated to people's gripes with Thames Valley Police's service.

The website -- www.thamesvalleypolicesucks.co.uk -- was launched by Phil Brown, 54, owner of a car and van-hire firm, who claims the force did not do enough to help him find a customer who never returned a car.

The site has already notched up more than 7,500 hits since it was set up about a month ago.

Mr Brown said he was "absolutely gob-smacked" by the response.

He has posted a series of emailed correspondence with Thames Valley Chief Constable Peter Neyroud on the site in which Mr Neyroud tells him: "I don't like your website because it is irresponsible."

A message from Mr Neyroud also says he takes concerns about the force's service seriously, and points out there is a team of call handlers dedicated to resolving complaints and concerns swiftly.

Mr Brown said: "I'm not condoning any crime. It's constructive criticism.

"I'm going to run the site as long as I keep getting emails. Some of the horror stories are quite frightening."

He has posted a list of "true stories" emailed by people from across the Thames Valley on the site. None of the correspondents are identified.

Mr Brown, of Bletchley, Milton Keynes, said he started the site after a customer with a forged driving licence hired a car from him, worth £8,000. The car was never returned and the man vanished.

Mr Brown called the police, believing the incident constituted theft and deception. However, he claims he was notified by police it was a civil matter and he would have to take legal action against the man.

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said: "We would urge the gentleman to complain through the appropriate channels and contact staff at the force's Professional Standards Department who will be happy to deal with his concerns.

"We are aware of this Internet site, but have nothing else to say about it at this time."