THE personnel department of Burnley Borough Council has been given the thumbs-up by an independent report.

The report, released by the Audit Commission has given the department two stars because it has 'clear and and challenging aims, is universally well regarded by its main users and has lower than average costs'.

Key strengths highlighted by the report include a comprehensive range of services and policies, exceeding targets of employing disabled people, running of supervisory and management development courses, personnel contributed significantly to the council's change programme.

Joanna Webb, lead best value inspector said: "Burnley's approach to personnel has produced some good results, which is being reflected in the universally positive endorsement the service received.

"The service is also well positioned to get better, and we outlined some ways that it can better contribute to the council's overall strategic aims."

However, it wasn't all good news for the department. According to the report, targets for recruitment from ethnic populations have yet to be met.

Targets are based on the size of a town's ethnic population, which means that Burnley must have 4.8 percent of Town Hall staff from minority backgrounds.

At the time of the report, the council employed 3.4 percent, which has since risen to 4 percent.

John Booth personnel manager for Burnley Borough Council said: "Obviously it is not easy to meet this target.

"You can't sack staff just because they have to be replaced by people from ethnic minorities.

"It has to be a gradual process, making sure we advertise in the right places."

Mr Booth said that overall, he could take satisfaction from the fact that his department has been awarded two from a possible three stars.

"It is a good result. To get two stars with an indication that you are likely to improve, is quite a result."

Peter Kenyon, executive member for best value and resources said: "I am very pleased our personnel service has received this recognition after a rigorous inspection by the best value inspection team.

"It is also pleasing to note that the service is judged likely to improve in the future."