Catherine Tate 'tormented by hate mail'

Police have reportedly been called to investigate hate mail received by actress Catherine Tate.

A series of sinister letters which contain false allegations have been sent to the TV comic's London home this month, reports The Sun.

A source said that the notes caused "great alarm" to Tate and her husband Twig Clark, 36.

"They contain completely false allegations. Catherine is understandably incredibly upset. It's very sinister," the insider said, while a family friend added that the communications have left the couple baffled. "Catherine and Twig are wondering what type of crank would send letters like these," the friend said.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman confirmed that detectives are investigation "malicious communications". The actress's representation declined to comment.