HEALTH chiefs in East Lancashire were celebrating today after winning coveted three-star status in the Government's latest performance ratings.

The Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley NHS Trust and the Burnley NHS Trust each achieved the top accolade. Lancashire Ambulance Service was also awarded three stars. All are now set to receive up to £1million in extra funding as a reward.

The performance ratings -- now in their second year -- are assessed on targets set by the Department of Health. These include waiting times, the number of cancelled operations and hospital cleanliness. The best trusts are awarded three stars and the worst none.

Calderstones NHS Trust in Whalley achieved two stars for its work with patients in its secure mental health unit at Whalley. Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley trust chief executive John Thomas said: "The award reflects the tremendous efforts made by staff throughout the organisation to maintain high performance standards and to constantly strive to develop services for patients.

"It is a splendid achievement, but we will not be complacent and will continue to work to reduce waiting times and improve services. We also recognise that sometimes problems occur. When this happens it is important that we learn lessons and make improvements."

David Hill, chief executive of the Lancashire Ambulance Service, said: "The award confirms that we have achieved consistently high levels of performance in delivering service to patients.

"The three-star rating offers extra investment potential which will help the trust to address the problems of meeting an ever-increasing demand for 999 services."

Of the 304 NHS trusts which were rated nationwide, 68 received three stars, 172 two stars, 54 one star and 10 none.