The South Hams has been named as the second friendliest place in England behind the Isles of Scilly but ahead of West Devon.

The new index is based on existing Government data from the Community Life Survey and gives 296 local authorities in England a score out of 100 based on their national ranking on across eight variables including how often they chat to neighbours, feelings of loneliness and belonging, level of trust in neighbours, local pride, volunteering and levels of participation in civic life.

Barking and Dagenham on the outskirts of east London was ranked the least friendlies place.

85.8 per cent of residents in the South Hams are proud of where they live, 81.7 per cent chat to their neighbours at least monthly and 44.5 per cent took part in civic life last year.

The polling project The National Conversation is underway and the results will be included in a report later this year by the Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion.

The Commission was set up to tackle the converging crises of social disconnection and division and is chaired by former Conservative Home Secretary Sajid Javid and former Labour policy chief Jon Cruddas.

The commission’s first report was issued last year and it said that: ‘communal life in Britain is under threat.’

Cllr Dan Thomas, Leader of South Hams District Council, said: “Anyone who knows the South Hams will understand why it has been recognised this way.

“Yes, we’re lucky to have beautiful coast, countryside, villages and towns, but what really makes this district special is its people.

“Across the South Hams, there are so many residents, businesses, volunteers and community groups who quietly go out of their way to help others, welcome visitors and look after the places they care about.

“That kindness and community spirit is something we should never take for granted.”

“To be named the second friendliest place in England is lovely recognition for the district, and it is something everyone who lives and works here can feel proud of. "

If you would like to take part in The National Conversation visit: https://tinyurl.com/ypduzbc9