The Tories claim to have next year's council elections sown up after scoring highly in the performance league tables.

Enfield Council was awarded three stars out of a possible four by the Audit Commission, under a new scoring system. Inspectors said Enfield is performing well and is well placed for further improvements. Council leader Mike Rye said: "We are delighted the rate of improvement over the last three years in Enfield has been recognised."

Opposition Labour members said the score masked weaknesses. "The public will be the judge of this in the long-term," said Cllr Bambos Charalambous.