An East Lancashire MP has been named as 'the Parliamentarian to watch’ in a Westminster awards.

Hyndburn Conservative backbencher Sara Britcliffe was given the accolade by communications group MHP.

It was the firm's second '30 To Watch: Politics Award' list.

The awards recognise public service, serving constituents and Parliament, doing new, exciting things and extra work.

After nominations closed, the nominees were then judged by 13 cross party MPs, journalists, and businesspeople.

Awarding agency the MHP Group, searches out the talent that looks set shape of politics into the future and then collate that information into its list.

Elected in 2019 as the Tories won Hyndburn from Labour, Miss Britcliffe, 28, served as a Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Department for Education for 18 months in 2021 and 2022.

She was appointed vice-chair for youth within the Conservative Party last year, becoming deputy chair earlier this month.

Her successes since entering Parliament have included securing Levelling Up cash to fund the regeneration of Accrington town centre, and work on creating an independent football regulator.

Miss Britcliffe said: I am totally surprised by this award, as I was not informed prior to winning as can sometimes be the case.

“It is always nice to have your work recognised.

"I will always work hard to represent my constituents as their Member of Parliament, and fight for the area we all call home to get its fair share.

“2023 has been a busy year and we have achieved so much, but we go again in 2024 to drive further positive change.”