An investigation into Thames Valley Police's poor performance has found that the force is improving but more work is needed.

Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) carried out the audit because of the force's low crime reduction and detection rates.

The criticism, based on performance figures for 1999/2000, showed that just one of 18 performance targets had been met.

The inspection, which took place earlier this year, has now declared that the force is "efficient and effective".

It added that, during the first nine months of 2000/2001, the situation was improving. Better detection rates and falls in recorded crime were also highlighted.

Following the audit, the HMIC has drawn up a list of areas for further improvement.

These include addressing community and race relations, and urgent action to improve the tracking and storage of written crime files, some of which had been lost.

HMIC inspector Peter Winship said: "The readiness of all staff to identify weaknesses and search for remedies was impressive.

"This factor, together with the energy and commitment of front-line operational staff, provides a firm foundation upon which to build for the future."