Calls for tighter security for Lancashire councilors over fears of death threats and stalking

There are calls for tighter security for councilors over fears some are being targeted with death threats and stalking.

The death of David Amess has raised questions about the safety of local politicians.

It also comes as a man who's in prison for sending threatening letters to MPs, including West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper, will spend longer in jail after sending another letter from his cell.

This time it was threatening to kill MP Jess Phillips but was intercepted before it got to her.

Many are required to have their home addresses made public, leaving dozens in fear of their personal safety.

Lizzi Collinge, councillor for Lancashire County Council, said she's seen a spike in abuse towards her and her colleagues this week alone: "I received a really unpleasant email after I did a radio interview from somewhere nowhere near where I represent; a female colleague had comments made on her Facebook page that not only called into account her professional and academic record but they were also mocked; a male colleague was intimidated at a meeting and he was asked to quote 'Go outside' by a resident and then roundly abused on social media...that's just this week.

"I don't think it's reasonable for anyone's address to be put online if they don't want it to be. I think it's inherently dangerous.

"Once information is in the public space online it is in there forever and anyone can read it.

"I received advice from Cat Smith MP and her office on how to make it safe; little things like making sure you always sit closest to the door. These are things that I wouldn't have really thought about to be honest, but that's not something that was given to me as a councilor, that's not something that was supported so I think information like that would be really helpful."

We have contacted Lancashire County Council for a statement.