Rushcliffe residents have been named the third happiest in the UK, based on a new study of measures including access to health services, crime and life expectancy. A Happiness Index commissioned by Royal Mail has found the Borough’s inhabitants are among the most joyful in the country due to very positive reported personal well-being, earnings and low levels of crime, deprivation and carbon emissions.

The research, commissioned to Cebr, saw eight measures inputted into an indexing methodology across districts in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland with only Winchester and Babergh scoring higher than the Nottinghamshire authority area. Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Chief Executive Allen Graham said: “We are proud yet another independent study has found Rushcliffe residents to have among the most positive and happy communities to live, work and play in across the UK.

“It is even more pleasing that we have highlighted that happiness can be found outside the South East and that the East Midlands is such a good place to live.

“The findings of this study further show that a number of great facilities and great opportunities contribute to the high quality environment that makes a difference to resident’s lives. This study also once again justifies our strapline great place, great sport and a great lifestyle.

“We know however there are always ways we can improve the quality of life for our residents and will endeavour to work with our partners to further develop the environment and facilities that can help make people happy.”