THE county's children's services has been slammed as 'inadequate' by Ofsted after three children died during the inspection.

The service, which is run by Lancashire County Council, was blasted for its leadership, management and governance as well as the experiences and progress of care leavers and children who need help and protection.

It was told to improve its adoption performance and the welfare of children in care.

During the inspection three children died in unrelated incidents but Ofsted has said that it is too early to conclude if their deaths could have been prevented.

When the service was last inspected in 2012 it was found to be 'good' overall with some 'outstanding' features.

The inspection covered the services of children who are in need of help and protection, children in care and those leaving care.

Lead inspector Shirley Bailey said: "There are serious failures in the services provided to children who need help and protection in Lancashire."

County Councillor Matthew Tomlinson, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "The children and young people who need these services deserve the best care and support, and we are very sorry that in some cases they have clearly not been receiving it."

Read the full story in tomorrow's Lancashire Telegraph.