IT WAS a time for celebration at Basingstoke and Deane council earlier this year after Government watchdogs gave the borough authority an "excellent" rating - the highest they can give.

A 50-page report from the Audit Commission says the council is performing well in key areas such as housing and regeneration and in helping to create a high-quality environment.

The inspectors found that: _ Customer satisfaction for most services is "very high" _ Finances are well-managed and resources are used effectively _ The council demonstrates clear leadership and partnership working which helps to deliver benefits for local people, for example in community safety _ Significant investment has been made in priority areas including affordable housing and services for young people.

The report says of the council: "Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is an excellent council and is well placed to deliver further improvements."

The inspection was part of a rolling programme which began in July last year and which will take in all 238 district councils in England.

It was partly based on a self-assessment carried out by the council and partly on an inspection visit by a team from the Audit Commission. While the overall verdict is excellent, the report says the council can do better in the way it collects the business rate and in its speed of answering telephone calls and letters.

Audit Commission press officer John Francis said achieving top-notch status meant the council would have fewer inspections.

Commenting on the Audit Commission verdict, council leader Cllr Rob Donnelly said: "This is fantastic news. I am delighted for everyone involved - their efforts have been really exemplary."

Deputy leader Cllr Brian Gurden said borough residents could feel proud.

He said: "We all recognise that the people of Basingstoke and Deane contribute daily to our success and they can feel genuinely proud of living in an excellent borough with a three star hospital and acclaimed schools and colleges."

Conservative group leader John Leek said: "I'm obviously very pleased they have achieved it. It may free them up from the quite ludicrous amount of inspections and audits local government is subject to."

Chief executive Gordon Holdcroft said there was no room for complacency and further improvements would be made, but he added: "This is a true reflection of the quality and commitment of councillors, staff and partners of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

"I am absolutely delighted with this team achievement. It is a pleasure to say we are 'excellent' at what we do."