MP TIM Farron has been formally selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate for the redrawn Westmorland and Lonsdale seat at the next general election.

Earlier this month the Boundary Commission for England confirmed that Mr Farron's current parliamentary constituency will be expanding into the Eden and Ullswater area, and leaving Kirkby Lonsdale.

If the Morecambe and Lunesdale Conservative MP David Morris retains his seat in the next general election, Kirkby Lonsdale residents will have him as their MP. 

Mr Farron joined local Liberal Democrat activists at an event near Kendal to launch the party's campaign ahead of the next election, which is expected to take place next year. 

Mr Farron said: "I’m honoured to have been selected as our candidate for the new Westmorland and Lonsdale seat.

“There is no greater honour than serving our communities as an MP and so I’m really happy that Kendal, the central Lakes, most of the South Lakes and the Cartmel Peninsula are staying in this constituency.

"I’m also absolutely thrilled at the prospect of having the opportunity to stand to represent Kirkby Stephen, Appleby, Shap, Tebay, Ullswater, Brough and so many other wonderful places in north Westmorland.

“I know we have a big fight on our hands to win this new seat but I have been massively encouraged by the warm reception I’ve received when speaking to people on the doorstep in Eden where many people are fed up with being let down by the Conservatives and are looking for a fresh change.

“I am determined to work harder than ever to fight for Westmorland in Westminster and get things done for local people.”