BUS users are finding it easier to access services and are taking more journeys by bus, according to a report by Lancashire County Council.

The council topped national performance tables earlier this year, receiving the top four out of four rating from government inspectors.

Progress towards this is monitored by the cabinet which receives a quarterly update highlighting areas of good practice and imp-rovements needed.

The report high-lighted the fact the council was getting better value from the money it allocates to support passenger transport services.

It also stated the number of sick days taken by staff is falling due to new procedures.

And a survey showed 63 per cent of residents were satisfied with key services and an increase on previous figures.

County Coun Anne Brown said: "Our job is to make sure the council is fully focused on meeting the needs of people in Lancashire.

"This report is encouraging and shows the authority is making good progress in many key areas.

"Like private business, we use sophisticated methods to monitor our performance with the major difference being that we aim to provide quality services and value for money rather than profits."

The report was made to the authority's cabinet committee on performance improve-ment.