Council secures top rating

The grading gives the council greater freedom

Government inspectors have labelled Derbyshire County Council one of the top authorities in the country.

The council is one of just 22 authorities in the country to be given the "excellent" grading by the Audit Commission.

But there was some criticism of its social care of children.

Neighbouring Derby City Council was awarded the second highest ranking of "good".

Good quality

Derbyshire County Council is the only one in the East Midlands to achieve the highest rating from inspectors.

The announcement means the county council will benefit from new freedoms on how it spends its budgets and will receive a three-year holiday from most compulsory inspections.

Council Leader John Williams was delighted at the news and said the authority was committed to providing good quality and value for money services.

He said: "This is the first time all county, metropolitan, unitary and London councils have been given an overall judgement on their performance by external inspectors.

"Our result demonstrates an 'excellent' record in providing quality services. It highlights careful housekeeping, strong leadership and a good capacity for further improvement."

Derby City Council was awarded the second highest ranking of "good", but inspectors highlighted improvements that need to be made in adult social care, the library service and benefits.