A REPORT recognises Lancashire Police as one of the more efficient forces in the country in the way it keeps people safe and tackles crime.

The PEEL efficiency report, published by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), shows that the force is facing an increasing and more complex demand.

The report reveals that more 999 calls have been recorded per 1,000 head of the population than previous years, and the police are handling more reports of victim-based crimes.

Union bosses said the report shows ‘urgent investment’ is needed to maintain and improve on the service provided to the public.

The report, which grades all forces across England and Wales, also shows that the county’s police force is having to tackle issues like people going through mental health crises.

The police is also having to improve its understanding of emerging issues like modern slavery and human trafficking.

Rachel Baines, chairman of the Lancashire Police Federation, said: “Policing is still under significant pressures, and needs urgent investment in order to maintain and improve on the service provided to the public.

“With officer numbers drastically reduced over the last 7 years, the pressures on the front line are greater than ever with officer welfare and wellbeing being severely affected.”

Lancashire’s police and crime commissioner Clive Grunshaw welcomed the ‘good’ grading from national policing inspectors.

He said: “I’m pleased that this report has rightly praised Lancashire Constabulary once again for the way they use diminishing resources to protect those who live and work here.

“This continues our strong track record over a number of years as being one of the most efficient in the country.”