The county’s fire crews are among the best in the country, according to a new report.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service has been judged ‘good’ in its latest Comprehensive Performance Assessment by the Audit Commission.

However, the service received top marks for its protection of the public for the second year running and the highest possible score for budget management, which is an improvement on last year.

The report also said the service had overseen a reduction in the number of arson attacks in the county and injuries to people in fires, while incidents of false alarms were among the lowest nationally.

Chief fire officer John Parry said: “We are delighted to be recognised as one of the best fire and rescue services in the country.

“I’m convinced we will be able to continue to make great strides in the future and ensure that excellence is embedded in the organisation.”

Judith Heathcoat, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for community safety, added: “The Audit Commission’s report is something that everyone in Oxfordshire should be proud of. I’m very pleased with our excellent response to emergency incidents throughout the county and the prevention work we carry out in the community.”

The Audit Commission’s annual assessment measures the strengths and weaknesses of fire and rescue services across the country.

Audit Commission spokesman Kirsty Keogh said: “Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is much better at managing its money, which the Audit Commission thinks is really important.

“If you live in Oxfordshire, you have got a good fire service.”