TORRIDGE District Council has received national recognition for its prompt payment practices.

MP Geoffrey Cox has presented an award to the council from the Forum of Private Business, which recognises Torridge District Council as one of the country's fastest paying local authorities, to head of paid service Jenny Wallace and deputy leader Cllr Roger Johnson.

Nationwide research carried out by the Forum of Private Business into the speed at which councils in England pay supplier invoices, saw Torridge listed in fourth place.

The study revealed the authority paid 94% of its suppliers in under 10 days – a target the Government has asked all councils to aim for to help struggling firms improve their cash flow. 

Mr Cox MP said: 'Congratulations to Torridge for being one of the best local authorities in the country at paying their bills so promptly. This is crucial in ensuring businesses are paid for services and goods supplied quickly and efficiently, and helps keep smaller firms afloat. No one likes to be kept waiting for monies owed – keep up the good work Torridge.'

Cllr Johnson said: 'This is a significant achievement for a small authority and shows how much we value our local businesses and suppliers. Cash flow is vital for businesses and anything we are able do as a local authority to help, we will.'

Robert Downes, spokesman for the forum, said: 'Torridge has done brilliantly well to achieve such prompt payment figures – they are a true beacon of best practice.'