AN independent assessment of Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has delivered positive results for the county.

The comprehensive national assessment carried across the country by the Audit Commission, found that Somerset was consistently 'performing well'.

For both its operational assessment of service delivery and performance again national indicators, such as the number of fires and false alarms, the service scored three points out of possible four.

The Audit Commission framework has rated how well 45 of the fire and rescue authorities in England prevent fires, deaths and injuries and how prepared they are to respond to emergencies.

Chief Fire Officer Clive Kemp said: "This assessment confirms that the service is performing consistently well over a number of areas, including how we respond to emergencies.

"People want to know that when they call the fire service in an emergency they will get a fast and efficient response.

"It is pleasing that independent assessment has found this to be the case.

"Our forthcoming merger with Devon who also scored a three will provide the platform for further improvements in the future."

Councillor Jim Mochnacz, portfolio holder for community protection said: "I believe that the results shown for Somerset and Devon are extremely encouraging and I am pleased that firefighters and support staff have been recognised for their hard work and dedication.

"These results provide us with a solid platform for further improvement across the new Fire Authority."

He added: "The service had a comparatively high performance rating in reducing the number of primary fires, the number of deliberate primary fires and the number of injuries resulting from fire.

"Reducing the number of injuries from fires is a priority for the Service and we have invested in community safety activity to educate the public about how they can stay safe within their homes."