Top marks have been given to Kent County Council for the seventh year running.

The council scored four stars in the latest assessment by the Audit Commission.

Inspectors praised education standards and social care in the county, and Kent’s low crime rate. ]

They said KCC had "strong leadership" and offered residents "excellent value for money".

KCC leader Paul Carter (Con) said: “This report confirms that we are providing excellent quality services to residents, from the education children receive in schools to the care we provide for our most vulnerable older residents.

"This journey of improvement has only been possible as a result of the hard work and dedication of KCC staff, elected members and our partners."

Meanwhile the council has also been awarded Beacon status for its preparations for the London 2012 Olympics. It was presented with the award by Olympics minister MP Tessa Jowell.

Cllr Mike Hill (Con), KCC's cabinet member for communities, said: "We are determined to get the most from the arrival of the Olympics and Paralympics in 2012. I hope that Beacon status reassures everyone in the county that we will continue striving to benefit the county."

Specific projects praised by the government included the creation of the Kent School Games, thought to be the largest youth or school sport event in Europe, and increased funding for young athletes.