Kent Police has received a glowing report for how effectively it keeps people safe and reduces crime.

Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary (HMIC), Zoë Billingham, praised the county's force for using its resources well, providing services that meet expectations and planning well for the future.

The report published today rated Kent Police outstanding for understanding its demand, local priorities, national requirements and public expectations, and good overall.

Ms Billingham said: "Kent Police continues to be good in its work to keep people safe and reduce crime."

She also said the force had an "excellent understanding" of where crimes were most likely to happen.

Kent Police Chief Constable Alan Pughsley said: "This report by HMIC acknowledges Kent Police has a comprehensive understanding of the full range of its current demand and that we are good at matching our resources to that demand.

"We are taking seriously the unprecedented demand faced and in doing so we are putting the public at the heart of our plans.

"My officers and staff strive to provide a first class service to the people of Kent every day and identifying the breadth and volume of demand and the best way to handle it is key to how we deliver policing both now and in the future."

He added: "However, we will not rest on our laurels and we are already looking at ways to improve on this grading and build on the successful work we've already accomplished."

Kent Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Scott said: "This positive report is testament to the hard work and dedication of officers and staff in protecting and serving the people of Kent.

"HMIC was particularly impressed with the force's grasp of growing demand areas such as cyber-crime and people trafficking and its ability to proactively seek out crimes such as modern slavery which affect some of our most vulnerable people.

"The force also received praise for its collaborative work and for its use of new technology such as body-worn cameras, the benefits of which I have seen for myself.

"As the PCC, with responsibility for managing the force’s finances, I’m pleased we’re delivering value for money and will continue to invest in new innovations because reducing vexatious complaints against police officers, improving evidence capture and reducing the need for officers to return to police stations to look-up information or to attend court to give evidence means more officers spending more time out in our communities."

The efficiency report is the first of three HMIC reports which make up its annual PEEL inspection.

HMIC will report its findings on legitimacy and leadership next month, and on the effectiveness of Kent Police in managing all aspects of crime in next Spring.