Police are investigating allegations against the wardens

Police said a number of allegations made about neighbourhood wardens under the control of Knowle West Development Trust were being investigated.

It is believed at least two wardens have been suspended but Michael Webb, chief executive of the trust, has refused to confirm details.

No arrests have been made in connection with the allegations.

'Isolated incident'

Residents in Knowle West demonstrated against the suspensions on Thursday.

A police spokesman said: "We are investigating a number of allegations made but inquiries are still at an early stage."

A spokeswoman for the South West Government Office said: "The government is aware of a number of allegations made regarding the conduct of some of the Knowle West neighbourhood wardens team in Bristol.

"At the moment there is an ongoing police investigation. Therefore it is inappropriate for us to comment."

Tony Blair visited Knowle in December 2002 for talks with community representatives and police officers about local crime, drugs and anti-social behaviour issues.

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has described the case as an "isolated incident" among more than 250 warden schemes funded by the government since 2001.