Possible changes to ward boundaries in Thames Ditton could mean a historical community could be split up.

Residents in the area who can have their say on boundary changes are being urged to keep the ward independent rather than joining up with Long Ditton.

But the Local Government Boundary Commission for England proposes Elmbridge Council should have 48 councillors in the future, 12 fewer than now – meaning the Thames Ditton ward would be reduced.

Recommendations outline 16 three-member wards across the borough instead of the current 22.

Councillor Ruth Lyon, representing Thames Ditton, said: "These roads have been part of Thames Ditton ward, the parish of St. Nicholas church, Thames Ditton and the local community since 1100 AD.

"We need all the support we can get to stop this bureaucratic and unnecessary carve-up which is against the boundary commission’s own criteria that any change should 'preserve and support community identities'."

Roads affected would be east of the Portsmouth Road, between Thorkhill Road and Claygate Lane with 940 people affected.

Have your say on the ward shake-up by August 24 and visit lgbce.org.uk/current-reviews/south-east/surrey/elmbridge.