RICHMOND upon Thames, has been identified as the perfect model to be emulated by the rest of Britain – from Rochdale to Blackpool.

Government papers suggest the area could offer a blueprint to others across England under the so-called 'Levelling up' agenda.

It is claimed that the Levelling up Secretary, Michael Gove, wants Richmond's record on health, life expectancy, education and productivity to set the standard.

That is according to an analysis of 25 indicators published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) alongside the government's 332-page levelling-up white paper.

Richmond scores best in the country on children's health with an obesity level of a relatively low 17%.

It has some of the best education in the country with nearly 95% of five-year-olds at the expected level in communication. And all of the borough's secondary schools are now listed as 'good' or 'outstanding.'

Richmond also scores best on smoking with the proportion of people who are smokers at just 8% compared to 23% in Blackpool.

Men enjoy 71 years of healthy life, which is the highest in the country.

And the relatively straight-forward commute into central London – 19 minutes to Waterloo - offers a head start when it comes to finding well-paid work.

The area is relatively wealthy with a median salary of £36,400 a year, and top out of 305 areas in terms of in terms of productivity, which is a measure of gross value added per hour worked with a figure of £48.

Last year, Richmond borough was named the happiest place in London and second in the country in a national happiness league.

Teddington was also named the best place to live in London by the Sunday Times - see our report on this HERE.

Richmond borough has many natural advantages with it Royal Parks and the River Thames, plus world famous institutions, such Kew Gardens, the National Archive and Twickenham stadium.

The borough's rich heritage, historic buildings such as Hampton Court and theatres are major attractions.

"Word is getting around," said Barry May, Chairman of civic and amenity charity The Richmond Society.

"More and more people are discovering what those of fortunate to live in Richmond have always known: it's the best place in London."

He added: "People here take pride in their neighbourhood.

"If Government statisticians now think Richmond is a model for the rest of the country to 'level up' to, that must mean we are doing something right.

"Nothing can be taken for granted, however. Preserving the distinctive look and feel of Richmond, its half-town, half-country atmosphere just half an hour from the city centre takes work.

"The Richmond Society is vigilant in watching for anything that might harm its special character."

The area's global fame has been boosted by the hit Apple TV series Ted Lasso, which featured Richmond Green along with many local businesses and landmarks.

It has also got its own version of the Monopoly board game, where Nub News is represented.

Celebrities from Sir David Attenborough to Angelina Jolie have homes here and just last week it emerged that Spider-Man actor Tom Holland, and his girlfriend Zendaya are moving to a 6-bedroom house in the borough.

However, the many attractions means house prices are among the most expensive in the country.

Property website, Rightmove, puts the average at just under £1.2million, which may well put a smile on the face of home owners, however it has the effect of pricing out many young people and families.