THE fire service and police are in line for rewards of more than £800,000 after hitting extra-tough targets.

District councils are due to have a share of the same amount, and Worcestershire County Council will cash in to the tune of almost £4m of Government funds for its efficiency.

The money comes after the county council agreed to enter a reward scheme where local authorities can set difficult public service targets in exchange for cash if they hit them.

The fire service is now in line for £837,228 for cutting accidental house fires, while the police will pocket the same amount for reducing the supply of Class A drugs.

A Malvern Hills District Council-led bid to increase recreation - the percentage of young people taking 15 minutes or more of exercise each day - will see Worcestershire's districts collecting a share of £837,228.

The county council will collect its funds for supporting older people and people with learning disabilities at home, cutting road accident casualties, halting the deterioration of country roads and improving the achievements of 14-year-olds.

Diane Tilley, director of planning, economy and performance at Worcestershire County Council, said: "Partner agencies have been strongly encouraged to reinvest the reward for the benefit of Worcestershire's communities."

More than £1.5m could also be on the way to the county council if audits on the achievements of 11-year-olds and council One Stop Shops show that the targets have been met.

Targets were missed in the learning of looked after children - children in care - and reducing the re-offending of young people.

Worcestershire County Council's cabinet welcomed the report during a meeting on Monday and congratulated its partners and staff on their performance.