DORSET Police has been graded as 'good' overall by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

The grading was part of the annual review of police effectiveness, efficiency, legitimacy and leadership.

Dorset Police Chief Constable James Vaughan said: “I am delighted that HMICFRS has assessed Dorset Police as ‘good’ across all areas inspected.

"I am particularly pleased that our commitment to protecting vulnerable people was recognised.

“I have set a high ambition for the force while I am pleased the force has been rated as ‘good’ we aim to provide an outstanding police service across Dorset with a particular focus on services to vulnerable people.”

Dorset Police was found to be good in terms of its legitimacy and how it treats the public and its workforce.

The report states the force is good at treating the public fairly and officers make fair and ethical decisions

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill said: “The people of Dorset should be greatly reassured by this report, which recognises that their force is still rated ‘good’ at keeping people safe and reducing crime.

“They should be particularly comforted to see that Dorset Police has been praised for its work in protecting vulnerable people – an area that has become more important than ever over recent years."