Police in Suffolk have been judged 'good' at keeping people safe and reducing crime - despite inspectors highlighting areas of concern.

Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary's (HMIC) report into police effectiveness, published yesterday, found two thirds of forces in the country – including Suffolk and Essex – were good or better.

Suffolk Constabulary was judged good across all areas and performed particularly well in tackling anti-social behaviour, which saw the third biggest rate reduction nationally. HMIC also praised the force for its progress protecting vulnerable victims, which was previously said to require improvement.

It noted a 'very positive picture' and commended officers, PCSOs and staff for their 'hard work and commitment.'

However the cuts to safer neighbourhood teams were raised as a concern by inspectors, who said too few people were allocated to local policing. The report also said there were delays in the force's ability to answer non-emergency calls due to shortages of call takers.

In response, Suffolk police said it had since recruited new officers, as well as a further 20 call handlers into the control room.

Deputy Chief Constable Steve Jupp said: 'The areas inspected should provide reassurance to the public that we are working extremely hard in ensuring they are kept safe.

'It needs to be borne in mind that this 'good' grading was achieved in the face of a continual financially challenging climate and one of changing and increasing demand on our service.

'It's also important to recognise that this inspection was conducted after the latest phase of the Suffolk Local Policing Review was implemented, so effectively the report is an endorsement of our work to transform and modernise our service and ensure we can respond effectively to current and future challenges.'

Suffolk's police and crime commissioner Tim Passmore added: 'Suffolk is a safe place to live and work and I hope people find reassurance in the fact that the HMIC inspection has acknowledged that the constabulary does a good job.

'We face challenging financial times and the constabulary is meeting this challenge with great professionalism and I hope Suffolk joins me in thanking them for their commitment.'