Mr Pilkington accepts there is still work to be done.

The force was told it needs to better tackle high volume crimes such as violence, car theft and burglaries.

Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary did however award top marks for road policing, public reassurance and strategic management.

Steve Pilkington told the BBC that "yob culture" was responsible for much of the region's violent crime.

But the Chief Constable said he welcomed the report, which he said recognised the hard work and dedication of police staff and volunteers.

"However, I do accept there is much work to be done around volume crime," he said.

Sixteen key areas of the force's work was looked at in detail.

It was rated as "good" in 11 other areas and "fair" for its human resource management.