A MAP showing the boundaries of Lancashire in the 21st century has been produced by a local society.

The Millennium Map of Lancashire shows the traditional county borders and was created by the Friends of Real Lancashire.

Prior to local government changes, Britain was mapped by traditional county areas that had existed for over a thousand years. But in 1974 their boundaries were deleted from maps and replaced with the new administrative county borders.

A copy of the new map is on display at county hall, after the leader of Lancashire County Council, John West, was presented with a framed version.

County councillor West said: "Lancashire is a name that means many things to many people. This map will be well used by scholars, students, people researching family history and local historians.

"I am delighted that the map has been launched at county hall, the seat of administration for Lancashire since 1888. Although we have seen many changes since then, the county of the red rose is still flourishing and I am sure this map will be very popular."

The Friends of Real Lancashire received a grant of £3,503 from the Millennium Awards For All committee to cover the cost of the maps.

An initial five hundred maps will be distributed to people studying a number of subjects, including history, geography, social sciences, family history or any research where traditional county geography is important.

Additional maps have been funded by the Friends of Real Lancashire. Copies can be purchased by sending a cheque or postal order for £4.35, made payable to 'The Friends of Real Lancashire,' to FORL at either 1 Belvidere Park, Great Crosby, Lancashire, L23 0SP, or 6 Heather Bank, Swarthmoor, Ulverston, Lancashire, LA12 0XQ.