ROSSENDALE has the best performing Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership in the country, according to the independent Audit Commission.

The partnership was established in 1999 in response to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 which required the police and local council to work together with other organisations to reduce crime in their areas.

It includes representatives from the police, council, county council, Probation Service, health authorities, voluntary sector, and businesses.

Duncan Ruddick, chair-man of the partnership and Rossendale Council leader, said: "As a partnership we have been working hard to reduce crime and disorder in the borough tackling issues such as persistent burglary and juvenile nuisance."