A local authority operating in Greater Manchester has received praise, it has been revealed.

Those working for Tameside metropolitan borough council were recently given the top rating by the Audit Commission, where in its corporate assessment report it gave the public sector body a score of four, something it also achieved in its previous assessment in 2003.

James Foster, senior manager for the Audit Commission, said: "Tameside council is performing strongly."

"The organisation understands and responds very well to the needs of its communities," he added.

Mr Foster also commended the council’’s operations with network partners in helping to improve local residents” quality of life.

In addition, the local authority was commended for providing a cost-effective service and taking steps to reduce crime rates.

Furthermore, the Audit Commission claimed that staff at Tameside council have the right skills in place in order to meet the organisation’’s targets.

Earlier this month, Devon-based Torridge district council was given a "good" rating by the Audit Commission, an improvement from the "poor" score it received in 2003.

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