CARE for vulnerable Hertfordshire children has shown a marked improvement since it was officialy slated three years ago, a new report has concluded.

The county's social workers were left reeling from a 2007 investigation which found children had been put at risk through numerous administrative failures, cause by severe staff problems.

But a two-week inspection in October by Ofsted and the Care Quality Commission described the service as "adequate and improving with good leadership".

John Harris, director of children’s services in Hertfordshire, said: “The safety of children across the county is paramount and the Ofsted report provides welcome confirmation of the good progress we have made over the last three years.

“We are not complacent, however, and we will be taking forward a robust action plan to respond to the areas for further improvement.

Councillor Jane Pitman, the relevant cabinet member, said: “This was a comprehensive inspection and the positive outcome is a testament to the commitment of our staff, the strong service leadership, and effective partnership working with schools, police and the NHS.

"I am delighted the inspectors recognised that our social work academy is enabling us to attract and retain high quality social workers."