ESSEX local authorities come in for their fair share of stick, not least in these pages, so when they get something right, it is only proper that they should be given due credit for the achievement.

Equal opportunities is one success story in which our councils can justifiably take some pride.

Going well beyond the mere demands of the law, councils have been energetically proactive in encouraging women to reach for the top. The approach has paid off.

Thurrock has done particularly well, topping the national league for well-paid female high-fliers. So has Essex County Council, which has a woman in the top, chief executive job.

This record stands out in strong contrast to the private sector, where lip service is paid to sexual equality, yet only limited progress has been made by women in reaching the top positions.

Just why this gap exists is unclear, but councils broadly have a long record as good employees, and the climate of encouragement to women is clearly one aspect of this tradition.

Whatever the reason, though, may the good work continue.