WEST Devon Borough Council has been shortlisted for round five of the Beacon Council Scheme which highlights excellence in local authorities.
The announcement last week takes the council a step closer to gaining the prestigious Beacon status, which would set it aside as a centre of excellence for other authorities to learn from.
Its inclusion on the shortlist for the next round means the council has already demonstrated innovation and a strong commitment to spreading best practice, particularly in the ?supporting people? service area.
Alison Stoneham, for West Devon Council, said: ?It?s excellent news.
?In the light of what has happened to us this year with good results from the audit commission, we are absolutely thrilled.?
West Devon Council is one of 15 local authorities in the South West to appear on the shortlist, drawn up by the Advisory Panel on Beacon Councils.
The successful authorities will now progress to the next stage of the selection process, which includes site visits and presentations.
Applicants awarded Beacon status for round five will be announced in April, after ministers have taken advice from the panel.