Gloucestershire County Council has been praised by the Social Services Inspectorate as an authority "on the move".

The comments by government inspector Janet Galley, follow an inspection of the council's social services department in April.

This looked at how the department used information it collected from users and staff to provide a better level of care.

Ms Galley said officers and members had shown "a real determination" to take the department forward.

She said: "At the time of the inspection there was a real sense of energy and enthusiasm to move things forward and an impression of this being a council on the move."

The report warns the authority faces a stiff challenge if it is going to meet the deadlines for reform.

Coun Maureen Rutter, cabinet spokeswoman for children and families (Lab, Stroud West) said: "I am extremely pleased with this report as it confirms we are continuing to make good progress in this very important area of our work. It confirms that our staff are committed and enthusiastic.

"We now have to ensure we continue to find the money to keep supporting our staff effectively."

The inspector's findings will count towards the future star rating of social services by the Department of Health.