MOST offenders have not been re-convicted for further crimes, a report into North Yorkshire's Probation Service has found.

The report, published yesterday by Her Majesty's Probation Inspectorate, said the service was well-led and managed and has successfully focused on meeting national targets.

Inspectors also found that offenders were receiving appropriate supervision, with regular contact arranged and action taken on breaches where necessary.

Chief probation inspector Andrew Bridges said: "The outcomes of the work are shown in most offenders not having been convicted of a further offence to date, and examples of their risk of harm being reduced or contained in a number of cases."

North Yorkshire Probation Service's chief officer, Roz Brown, said that she was delighted with the report.

"I believe that the communities we serve throughout North Yorkshire can view the findings as a positive endorsement of probation work in North Yorkshire in delivering effective supervision of offenders to protect the public and reduce crime.

"At all times, our challenge is to find the right balance between enforcement and support. By doing this, we are able to maximise our contribution to crime-reduction and public protection.

"The assessment of North Yorkshire recognises the excellent work we are doing in achieving this, and I believe that we are well-placed to face the challenges ahead."

All 42 probation areas in the country are inspected every three years.

Inspectors look at a sample of 100 cases and examine work done to improve offenders' employability and skills.