TORY leadership contender Rishi Sunak brought his campaign to succeed Boris Johnson as Prime Minister to East Lancashire this week.

The former chancellor address more than 90 Conservative Party members at Clitheroe's St Mary's Centre on Monday.

Cllr David Berryman, the Ribble Valley's Conservative agent, welcomed Mr Sunak and invited his rival foreign secretary Liz Truss to visit the constituency.

Mr Sunak spoke about his vision for the future of the country should he become Prime Minister outlining his plans for tax reform, energy security and how he would deal with the cost of living crisis and inflation.

During a question and answer session he fielded questions on tax reform, local government finance, the NHS, consultation of party members by the leadership and international relations.

Mr Sunak said that he would continue the support that the government had given to Ukraine since the beginning of the conflict.

Cllr Berryman said “Whilst the local party is not endorsing either candidate we are very willing to facilitate both candidates’ interaction with members who have now received their ballot papers from the party.

"Mr Sunak came across as very personable, knowledgeable and willing to listen to the views of others.

"Should the Liz Truss team wish for the association to set up a similar event for her, then we would be more than happy to oblige.”

Cllr Stephen Atkinson, leader of Ribble Valley Borough Council, said “Rishi is a man with a great deal of experience at the heart of government. I am hopeful that he will take on board some of what was said to him today about local government finances and the tax system.”

Cllr Jan Alcock said:“This was a useful exercise in helping the Lancashire members determine which candidate to choose.”

Cllr Stella Brunskill said:“Rishi came across very well in person, but I am still undecided at the moment.”