ANDREW Stephenson, Pendle's MP, has welcomed the announcement by Ofcom, which will let mobile customers switch provider by sending a text.

Under major reforms by the Telecoms regulator, everyone will be able to switch providers by sending a free text messages.

The change will come into effect from July 1, 2019.

Mr Stephenson said: "I welcome Ofcom’s changes, which will help Pendle residents frustrated with their current mobile supplier switch quickly.

"This will improve competition and should also lead to better customer service."

An Ofcom spokesman said the new rules will make it quicker and easier for people and businesses to leave their mobile company.