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A High Court judge has criticised the "serious failings" of a Welsh council in its treatment of a looked-after teenager while he was in prison.

Mr Justice Munby told the court last week there was "confusion" over the role of the 18-year-old's personal adviser and said Caerphilly Council had embarked on a pathway plan for the teenager far too late.

He described the steps taken to involve the teenager in the process as "inadequate".

Justice Munby said that the man, who was taken into care in 2001 and had had repeated periods in secure accommodation, had been unco-operative but said that was no reason for the council not to carry out its obligations.

The Howard League for Penal Reform, which backed the judicial review challenge, described the judge's ruling as landmark.

Chris Callender, head of the league's legal team, said: "This judgement will send out a message to all local authorities that assessment and planning is not simply about ticking boxes but a thoughtful and detailed process helping children to map out their future."

A spokesperson for the council said: "We recognise the criticisms and the need to improve our processes which will help us avoid situations like this reoccurring in the future."