The team was praised for the introduction of youth offending panels, made up of volunteers and staff, who work out individual programmes to help offenders face the consequences of their actions.

Its justice projects to tackle anti-social behaviour in schools were also singled out for commendation.

Linda Barnett, team manager, told the BBC: "We were delighted to be named as the best team in the country.

"The challenge now is to consolidate and learn from the schemes we have up and running and, at the same time, play a significant role in developing a new preventative strategy."

Chief Superintendent John Snell of Taunton Police said: "I have a belief that, working together, the statutory and voluntary agencies can make a significant difference to the lives of children and their families."

The Youth Justice Board is a public body with the aim of preventing children and young people offending.