HERTFORDSHIRE County Council has been named as one of the best local authorities in the country for tackling bullying in schools.

Stonewall, the gay equality charity, placed the council fourth in its Education Equality Index, announced last week.

The index compares the performance of different councils in tackling bullying and celebrating difference, which is a statutory requirement for schools.

The council was praised by Stonewall for its excellent practice and innovative approach.

Its work offering training opportunities for schools was recognised, in particular how schools can meet the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students, design an inclusive curriculum and develop links with LGBT groups in the community.

Cllr Terry Douris, deputy cabinet member for education and skills, said: “We work really hard across the board to tackle bullying of all types.

“There is still much to achieve with tackling bullying, but we are proud to be recognised as one of the best local authorities for this kind of work in the country.”