DORSET Police have been graded 'good' in the latest report on the force's performance - despite pressures on resources.

Today's PEEL inspection report says Dorset's approach to crime prevention and keeping people safe continues to be 'good'.

That includes efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour and organised crime, and working with partners to support vulnerable victims.

The inspection also looked at standards of crime investigation and how offenders are managed.

Dorset was also praised for its work to protect the most vulnerable people in society.

The report from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary’s (HMIC) also said the force maintains a visible presence in local communities and that crime investigations are completed to a good standard by skilled and experienced officers.

Dorset Police were also praised for safeguarding the public from dangerous and prolific offenders.

The report also recognised that Dorset Police is experiencing resource pressures, with work to protect people at risk of harm creating more demand.

Deputy Chief Constable, James Vaughan, said: “I very much welcome HMIC’s good grading. It is heartening for all our officers and staff that the efforts they make every day are viewed positively.

“Of particular note, I am pleased to see Dorset Police has once again been singled out for our ability to protect the most vulnerable people in our communities, something which will always be a priority.

"Even though this approach brings additional demands and will continue to be an area that requires investment, keeping people safe who are most at risk must remain a cornerstone of policing.

“The Force is currently looking at how it manages pressures on its resources, to ensure we can sustain a high quality of service to the public and deal with the changing demands to policing.”

The inspection also found that Dorset Police has effective specialist teams and works well with other forces to respond to regional and national criminality, such as organised crime, terrorism, cyber-crime and child sexual abuse.

Dorset PCC Martyn Underhill, added: “The findings of this report show that Dorset Police is working hard to provide an innovative, effective response to the emerging crimes our communities face."