AN INSPECTION report that rated West Yorkshire Police as good has been welcomed by the county's Police and Crime Commissioner.

Mark Burns-Williamson was responding to an updated report from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC), which assessed police effectiveness, efficiency and legitimacy.

The West Yorkshire force was rated good at keeping people safe and reducing crime overall.

Mr Burns-Williamson (pictured) said: "The report highlights how the leadership provides clear, challenging and ambitious direction, referencing the 'Programme of Change' efficiency programme and the innovative use of volunteers and special constables from local communities that enhances the diversity, experience and skills mix of the workforce from different backgrounds and walks of life.

"It is reassuring that officers and staff at WYP think that the Chief Officer Team are open and feel able to challenge senior leaders on important issues, with a positive culture of change for frontline staff resulting in a stronger focus on improving the legitimacy of WYP, in the way it keeps people safe and reduces crime.

"Regarding the areas of improvement highlighted in the report around external engagement and more general communication with the public, I will be supporting WYP in addressing these areas to ensure we continue to do all we can to keep our communities informed about the direction of WYP and how we are working to keep them safe and feeling safe.

"Overall though this is a very positive inspection report and testament to the leadership and good progress that has been made during difficult times and I would like to thank and congratulate WYP in achieving this independent assessment rating."