Violent offenders will be fast-tracked through Oxford Crown Court as part of a drive to tackle street crime.

Robbery, carjacking, and firearm offences will be given priority by the court, which has been made one of 67 street crime courts in the country.

The Lord Chancellor's Department announced the move as part of the Government's fight against rising street crime.

Fast-track courts are being introduced in the 10 areas nationally which account for 82 per cent of street crime -- including the Thames Valley.

Facilities at Oxford Crown Court will be improved to give victims and witnesses secure waiting areas to avoid intimidation, away from defendants and their supporters. To prevent cases being repeatedly adjourned, magistrates will send offenders straight to crown court, where they will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

The initiative, which comes into force immediately, was welcomed by Insp Keith Henderson, of Oxford police.

He said: "There can be little worse than having victims waiting months on end for cases to come to court, particularly when dealing with serious street crime offences."