WEAR Valley District council's community safety service has been rated good and awarded two out of three stars by a Government watchdog.

The Independent Audit Commission assessed the service and gave it a high score because of the positive effect it has on the community.

The audit commission highlighted the council's initiatives to reduce crime and disorder.

Council leader Olive Brown, said: "I am delighted with the outcome of this review.

"It clearly demonstrates that community safety is one of our key priorities and we are identifying how we can tackle these issues in all the services we deliver."

Council chief executive and chairman of the Wear and Tees Community Safety Partnership, Iain Phillips, said: "It also recognises our commitment to work with partner agencies and communities when it comes to tackling the issues of crime and anti social behaviour.

"These are issues that are important to everyone in the district and we will continue to try to build further on the significant work that has already been done."

The council was also praised for its record of improvement over the past three years and for identifying key areas for further improvement.

The inspection followed the council's own review of its role in community safety.