City council bosses are backing an MP's bid to get the name of his constituency changed.

Ivor Caplin wants his safe Labour seat of Hove renamed to recognise the fact he also represents Portslade.

He launched a campaign to put Portslade on the political map and it has now gained support from Brighton and Hove City Council.

Chief executive David Panter has written to the Boundary Commission for England, recommending the constituency be known as Hove and Portslade.

Mr Panter said: "The constituency of Hove Borough does not reflect the large and historic area of Portslade, which is clearly a separate geographical entity from the remainder of Hove.

"The new constituency would recognise the views of a number of local electors and the city council therefore makes the recommendation."

Mr Caplin, along with Portslade councillors, launched the campaign for the name change in January and more than 400 people have signed a petition in support.

Boundary Commissioners are now considering representations on the change and a public inquiry into the proposals is due to be held in June.

Mr Caplin said: "I am delighted the city council has backed this campaign, which has wide-ranging support across the city."