THE final version of proposed Parliamentary boundary changes for Lancashire have been condemned by two Tory MPs whose seats would be merged into one constituency.

Ribble Valley's Nigel Evans and Pendle's Andrew Stephenson both strongly opposed the draft new map after it was originally put forward in September 2016.

Despite some minor alterations after consultation, the thrust of the plan to reduce the number of East Lancashire constituencies from six to five remain intact.

The most controversial proposal is to take the Eastern end of Mr Evans seat including Clitheroe and Whalley and merge it with Colne and West Craven from Mr Stephenson's into a new Pendle and Ribble Valley constituency.

Nelson goes into a redrawn Burnley seat while Padiham is moved into a new Hyndburn constituency which loses Helmshore and Haslingden to a new Rossendale and Darwen seat.

This redrawn constituency loses Lower Darwen which goes into a new Blackburn seat.

The Northern part of Ribble Valley including Longridge and Ribchester will become part of a giant North Lancashire constituency.

Blackburn MP Kate Hollern said: "I am pleased to see that the Commission has not altered its original proposals for the changes to the Blackburn or Rossendale and Darwen Constituency as these were broadly supported by local residents and reflect the existing boundaries and community links”

Mr Evans said: ''This is a ridiculous, daft and preposterous proposal that could only be devised in Whitehall by someone who has never set foot in East Lancashire."

Mr Stephenson said: "I’m disappointed the Boundary Commission hasn’t listen to the submission of many residents, including my own, that Pendle shouldn’t be broken up and spilt across two constituencies."

Burnley MP Julie Cooper said: "This plan would effectively carve up the Burnley constituency in what appears to be a completely ad hoc and piecemeal fashion and will result in us losing the Hapton with Park, Rosegrove with Lowerhouse and Gawthorpe wards."

Hyndburn MP Graham Jones said: "I am disappointed. These proposals do not reflect local community links."

The changes need a vote in Parliament to be implemented at the next General Eelction.