SPLITTING a Meon Valley parish into two electoral wards will reignite "bitter resentment" among villagers, civic chiefs were warned.

Soberton is set to be represented by two county councillors under new boundary changes.

But city councillor Vicki Weston, ward member for the parish, said this would send "mixed messages" to residents who protested a similar change at Winchester City Council.

Cllr Frank Pearson told cabinet last week that the issue still caused "bitter resentment" on the doorstep, adding: "To do it again is, to say the least, not electorally wise."

Under the plans part of Soberton would share a councillor with Corhampton, Curdridge and other Meon Valley villages, while the rest will be represented alongside the southern parishes around Denmead.

Cllr Anne Weir said Weeke should be part of a city ward, rather than joining villages such as Littleton.

Consultation on the boundary review closes on January 13.