The daughter of a psychiatric patient who died in a police cell where she was being held over an alleged breach of the peace said last night that she was "appalled" that nobody would face criminal charges over the tragedy.

Moyra Stockill was found dead in a cell only hours after being taken from Middlesbrough's St Luke's Hospital to the town's police station over an alleged fracas at the mental health unit in December 2003.

Last night, the Crown Prosecution Service told her family, lawyers and Cleveland Police that, following lengthy consideration, it would not be bringing criminal proceedings in connection with the death.

The CPS said it believed there were "deficiencies" in the way Mrs Stockill was looked after in custody, but there was not enough evidence to support a charge of manslaughter through gross negligence.

An inquest can now be held, and Mrs Stockill's family say they will decide what further action can be taken, depending on the verdict.

They say that, despite having a history of self harm and making previous attempts to choke herself, the 61-year-old was not kept under constant surveillance at the police station and was found dead in the cell a few hours after being detained.

Through solicitor Ruth Bundey, Mrs Stockill's daughter, Clare Barker, said: "I am appalled and astounded that a decision has been taken not to prosecute anyone in connection with my mother's totally avoidable death."

A spokesman for Cleveland Police said: "We have been informed that no charges are to be brought and we are waiting to see the IPCC (Independent Police Complaints Commission) report."

A commission spokesman said: "The next step is to proceed to an inquest.

"Following that, we will discuss whether any disciplinary matters need to be considered."