Designed to assess the quality of service provided by the local CAB, the independent audit scored it at 81%, ranking it in the top 17% of Citizens' Advice Bureau branches across the country.

The independent auditor also praised the commitment of the Ribble Valley team, which he said meant that a high level of practical support was offered to people who came to the bureau. The auditor's report found: "Clients are very satisfied with the service".

Tony Vail, of the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux, who carried out the three-yearly inspection, was impressed by the efficiency of the local advice service, recognising its "very limited funding base".

Katy Marshall, branch manager, gives the credit for the excellent report to her colleagues behind the scenes. "This outcome is a tribute to the team of paid staff, trustees and especially the volunteer advisers who are a fantastic resource for the Ribble Valley community," she said.

At present the bureau has four trainee vacancies for people wishing to join the advice team. Anyone interested who can offer a minimum commitment of two half-days a week (about seven hours in total) is invited to contact Katy on 01200 428998 for an informal chat and application form.