The commendation comes in the 'best example of enforcement linkage with the drug interventions programme' category.

The Home Office awards aim to recognise those police forces making a real difference to the lives of local communities by cracking down on drugs, as well as providing an opportunity for forces to share knowledge and best practice.

Lancashire's bid focused on a project called 'Enforcement and DIP - A seamless and holistic approach', which aims to reduce the harm caused by drugs to communities, as well as reducing crime and the demand for and availability of drugs.

In order to do this the Constabulary has worked tirelessly with the Lancashire Drugs Action Team to link enforcement with the drug interventions programme which in Lancashire is known as The Tower Programme. The award was officially presented to Inspector Steve Stebbings at the Grand Hotel in Brighton last night (Thursday 17 April).

As a result of the good work which has been carried out in Lancashire there have been significant year on year reductions in acquisitive crime with 4,500 fewer victims compared to last year.

16 per cent more people are being treated through Tower compared to last year and fewer people consider drug use or drug dealing is a problem in Lancashire.

Detective Superintendent Dave Brian, Chair of Lancashire's Tower Programme, said: "This award recognises the hard work of a lot of committed people working in partnership on behalf of the community.

"The approach taken to drugs in Lancashire of Enforcement, Education, Treatment and Support works and works well.

"The reduction in crime that this delivers is of benefit to all our communities and we are very proud that this has been recognised by the Home Office."