Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews has welcomed a report grading Leicestershire Police as 'outstanding' at tackling serious and organised crime.

The force received the highest ranking following an inspection by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

HMICFRS said the force has 'an integrated approach and effectively manages serious organised crime'.

Other findings praised its innovative approach to identifying and tackling foreign national offenders, its use of analytical work to achieve successful outcomes, the work it undertakes with partners to prevent people from being drawn into organised crime and its effectiveness at pursuing organised criminals by targeting their assets.

The report also touched on the force's excellent track record of securing convictions against organised crime groups by using only the analysis of telecommunications data.

Commenting on the report, Mr Matthews said: "This is an excellent achievement and proof that Leicestershire Police is among the best forces nationally for identifying and driving out serious and organised criminals.

"I know an incredible amount of commitment and hard work has got us to this point and I would like to pay tribute to every member of the team whose contribution in making the streets of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland is invaluable.

"This independent assessment HMICFRS will boost trust and confidence in policing locally and provide the workforce with further motivation and encouragement to succeed. As the Chief Constable Rob Nixon has already said, the good work doesn't end here and further opportunity awaits to disrupt the criminal activities that threaten the lives of vulnerable people and impact peace and safety in our communities. I look forward to further success in the future."