YOUNG offenders who persistently commit crime in Lancashire are now being dealt with more swiftly than ever, according to police.

The latest figures show that after being arrested it took an average of 51 days to bring young offenders to justice.

Comparing the figure to the national average of 62 days, police said it highlighted Lancashire's commitment to dealing with juvenile crime'.

A police spokesman said the results were due to criminal justice agencies working together to improve efficiency.

"The Crown Prosecution Service, the courts and the youth offending teams along with the police are very active in unblocking all the potential delays."

to the justice process, and this shows in the Constabulary's current performance", the spokesman said.

Inspector John Clucas added: "We are pleased that we continue to perform well above the national average but also that we are now becoming very consistent at doing this."