MP NIGEL Evans has called for all parties to field a full line-up of candidates in next year's local election for Ribble Valley Borough Council.

He also wants voters to go to the polls in large numbers to help stop any moves by the Government to carve up Lancashire.

Speaking to Tories in Ribchester, the Ribble Valley MP said next year's local authority elections will give all parties the opportunity to field a full list of candidates representing the variety of interests in the borough.

He said: "I am delighted the Ribble Valley is currently under a Conservative administration and providing one of the most efficient local governments in England.

"It is vital candidates are selected early. Indeed, all political parties should be encouraged to do the same.

"Local government is the grassroots of our democracy. Just as we would encourage higher turnout at the ballot box, we should also encourage wider participation by people in all the political parties.

"The best bolstering against the 'Balkanisation' of Lancashire is to ensure that we have vibrant districts or borough councils where many people participate."