EDUCATION services and recycling in Lancashire have improved, according to the latest Audit Commission report.

The national body annually assesses how well councils are performing in terms of the public services they provide to local residents.

Lancashire County Council is described as 'good' on the commission's rating scale - one step below the highest rank of 'excellent'.

It is said to be improving in areas such as social care and educational attainment, and receives top marks for its use of resources.

Inspectors also found that Lancashire is well placed to achieve excellence over the next year.

Council leader Cllr Hazel Harding says: "It has been proved that Lancashire is a very well run organisation that provides good services for all its residents. The rating shows we are making a positive difference to the lives of residents and that we have the ability to do even more for people."