FORMER Eastleigh MP David Chidgey is to become a Liberal Democrat peer sitting in the House of Lords.

Mr Chidgey has been awarded a life baronetcy and wants to take a title related to the Eastleigh constituency.

He now has to meet the Garter Knight at Arms to discuss the options available, but has said suggestions from the general public would be "gratefully received".

Confirmation of his peerage came less than 24 hours after a special meeting of Eastleigh Council unanimously backed a move to make him a freeman of the borough to recognise the "eminent services" he rendered as MP for the Eastleigh Constituency from 1994 to 2005.

The official wording also recognises his diligent work for the well-being of the community and mentions the high esteem in which he is held.

Speaking of his peerage, he told the Daily Echo: "I am delighted to be invited to become a member of the House of Lords.

"I am looking forward to carrying on my parliamentary work, but in the upper chamber. I am sure there will be many challenging times ahead as we scrutinise and try to improve the legislation put forward by this government."

Commenting on the move to make him an honorary freeman of the Eastleigh borough, he said: "I will be delighted and honoured to accept.

"It will be a fitting reminder to me of all the kindness and support that I have received from the people of Eastleigh over my years as their MP and it is recognition of the work my team has done."

The former MP, who will be 63 in July, announced he would be stepping down as Eastleigh MP at the General Election as long ago as October 2003.

He first captured the Eastleigh seat from the Conservatives with a stunning by-election victory in June 1994. Last week he was succeeded by Liberal Democrat MP Chris Huhne.

The freedom of the borough will be conferred on Mr Chidgey at a specially arranged council meeting later this year. Council leader Keith House said it was fitting that the honour should go to Mr Chidgey to mark his retirement after 11 years.