AN independent health watchdog today praised ambulance services in Lancashire.

A report by the Commission for Health Improvement praised staff for their commitment to providing high-quality services to patients.

The report, based on an independent inspection carried out late last year, praised a number of areas within the service which covers the whole of Lancashire and runs the NHS Direct telephone advice line for most of the North West.

Chief Executive of Lancashire Ambulance Service NHS Trust David Hill said: "This is the first time that an independent review has been undertaken of the services we provide to patients and it is very reassuring that the review has praised our commitment.

"It found that staff across the organisation were courteous to patients and callers, and performed their jobs in a professional, caring manner."

Mr Hill said the report highlighted some areas for improvement and he said an action plan would be developed to ensure ambulance and NHS Direct teams worked closer together.

He said another big priority for the coming year would be to work together to develop ways of improving communication between staff and management throughout the organisation.

In last year's health league tables, the trust was given the highest three-star rating after meeting Government targets in most areas.

In a recent survey of patients, the trust's accident and emergency staff were also praised.