Leading politicians have hailed the creation of the Lancashire Business Board targeting a more prosperous region.

The independent board consists of heads from Lancashire's leading regional, national and international companies.

It will work closely with Lancashire County, Blackburn with Darwen, and Blackpool councils towards long-term economic growth.

During the first meeting on July 15, board members opted to write to Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner MP, expressing their support for devolution in Lancashire.

Lancashire County Council's leader, Phillippa Williamson said: "A vibrant business community which helps inform local authorities and government is absolutely vital in ensuring our county's economy continues to grow and flourish.

"Members of the board will be able to draw on their own experiences to inform, stimulate and scrutinise the delivery of local policies intended to grow the economy."

The board also acknowledged their support for the upcoming Convention of the North 2025, which Lancashire County Council will host at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston on February 27 and 28.

Cllr Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "Lancashire has been underachieving from a growth and skills perspective and we want to use the Level 2 Devolution deal to start to make up the ground on our neighbours with their Combined Authorities.

"The Business Board made up of significant Lancashire-based business leaders will help enormously with that mission."

Blackpool Council's Leader, Lynn Williams, added: "The Business Board's support for a devolution deal for Lancashire was very evident, particularly in the quick, decisive action that was taken to express their support for such a deal with the deputy prime minister Angela Rayner MP.

"The expertise across the board is exactly what Lancashire and Blackpool need to help to grow our economy.

"We very much look forward to working with the board further."