THE new merged police force will be known as the Cumbria and Lancashire Constabulary, it has been confirmed.

The amalgamation will come into effect in April next year after both forces voluntarily agreed to the move.

Yesterday, police authority members voted to approve the new name put forward by the counties' chief constables.

Lancashire's Acting Chief Constable, Steve Finnigan said: "It is easily recognisable and a positive name that retains the identity of both forces and I don't think it makes the slightest difference which county comes first.

"We will never please everybody but I feel that it is the sensible way forward."

Chair of Lancashire Police Authority, Malcolm Doherty, said: "The name retains the established links with local communities in both counties and we are all pleased that the new force will still be called a constabulary.

"It may be a new name but our aims remain the same that we will continue to deliver the high quality, flexible and responsive policing for which both forces are known and keep up our strong tradition."