STAFF at a laboratory in Weymouth have been praised for their work.

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas) in Barrack Road has had its science praised by an independent review.

The Science Review, carried out on behalf of the Department for Environment, government, found the general level of the agency’s science “excellent and in several areas is leading at the European and global level”.

It also praised the management of its international-level science, improvements in its financial position and increasing diverse customer base.

Cefas’ Interim Chief Executive and Chief Scientist at the time of the Review Mike Waldock said: “We are delighted with this very positive report. It praises our work in nunderpinning policy development and making a significant contribution to research.

“Our science is also helping to support a thriving marine industry, which is playing a part in delivering sustainable growth for the UK.

“In addition to the positive remarks in the report, there are some areas where further improvement could be made. We will now take these forward by working closely with Defra.”