POLICE plans to merge the Lancashire and Cumbria forces are still on the table after the Home Office asked for more details.

Major re-structuring of police forces throughout the UK is taking place with two options for Lancashire - the preferred one being a merge with Cumbria as opposed to a three-force merger between Lancashire, Cumbria and Merseyside.

Police Authority chairman Cllr Malcolm Doherty says: "Three options were submitted by the Constabulary at the end of October. These were all assessed by the Home Office which has now responded by asking for a more detailed analysis from us of the options to be carried out."

Acting Chief Constable Steve Finnigan adds: "We are pleased that Lancashire's preferred option of a proposed amalgamation with Cumbria is reflected in the Home Office feedback."