DEVON and Cornwall Police has received a ‘Good’ rating of performance from independent inspectors.

Her Majesty’s Inspector of Constabulary, (HMIC), today (Thursday, February 25) publishes its Annual ’PEEL’ report looking at policing effectiveness, efficiency, and legitimacy.

The report says Devon and Cornwall Police keeps people safe, reduces crime, understands the needs of local communities and works well with partner agencies.

It gives further credit for tackling anti-social behaviour and devising ‘innovative ways of working’ during peak demand – particularly summer policing.

Assistant Chief Constable Russ Middleton welcomed the report which rates Devon and Cornwall as one of the best performing police forces in the country.

Mr Middleton said: ’At a time of austerity and reduced policing resources, having an independent report giving such a positive view of Devon and Cornwall Police is a huge credit to all our officers and staff.

’Our mission is to detect harm, protect the vulnerable and reduce crime – all areas the HMIC say we are doing well.’

Ensuring services are in place to protect children subject to sexual abuse and improving services to victims of crime, are marked as areas to monitor by the report, but it acknowledges progress is being made in these areas.