Cornwall County Council has been described as "excellent" in the first independent review of local authorities.

The Audit Commission's report means the council is one of 22 in England to receive the top rating.

There was special praise for its education and social services departments.

The Commission said the authority is as efficient as the best private companies.

This is a very significant accreditation, not just a flattering award or glittering trophy. John Lobb, leader of Cornwall County Council

There will now be less government control over the county's spending.

It will also be expected to share its expertise with the less successful authorities.

The council leader, John Lobb, said it is a truly independent recognition and marks a "step change" for the council.

He said: "This is a very significant accreditation, not just a flattering award or glittering trophy.

"It is not only a pat on the back for County Council staff and elected members.

"Our democratic roots mean that everyone in Cornwall - every voter, taxpayer, service user and service provider - should share our pride in the county's national success."

The Audit Commission's performance table ranks all England's 150 unitary authorities and county councils.

Authorities were placed in one of five brackets - excellent, good, fair, weak and poor - based on provision of key services, use of resources and ability to improve.

All councils not rated excellent now have a month to draw up a plan to improve their public services.

In addition to the 22 councils achieving an excellent rating the Audit Commission judged 54 as good, 39 fair, 22 as weak and 13 as poor.