A REPORT by the Audit Commission has found the community safety service provided by Middlesbrough Council is fair and has promising prospects for improvement.

A commission inspection team gave the service one star because community safety is a high priority and resources are focused on creating a safer Middlesbrough. But despite an extensive range of initiatives, the fear of crime in Middlesbrough is still higher than average.

Pat Thynne, commissioning inspector Northern region, said: "Middlesbrough Council's Raising Hope, Reducing Fear initiative aims to reduce crime and tackle a host of town centre and anti-social behaviour issues, and should develop some real benefits for local people.

"Outstanding issues the council needs to tackle include the need for training to ensure staff have all the skills they need to help make Middlesbrough a safer place."

Strengths highlighted in the report included the commitment to tackling crime and the fear of crime through initiatives, and the council's success in winning funding to support its regeneration and community safety work.

Weaknesses found by the inspectors included high burglary and vehicle crime rates.

Copies of the report are available from Middlesbrough Council or by visiting the Audit Commission website at www.audit-commission.gov.uk.