An 'unprecedented' rise in the number of elderly people in rural county areas is pushing counties to breaking point, council leaders have warned.

Figures from the County Councils' Network (CCN) showed the number of elderly people in county areas has risen by 500,000 in three years.

CCN warned this change in population had not been recognised in the way funding was distributed to councils so county residents faced ‘disproportionate cuts' compared to England's urban areas.

It called for the Government's new methodology funding for councils to include elderly population growth or the system would become unsustainable.

Health and social care spokesman for CCN, Cllr Colin Noble, said: 'We are dealing with an elderly population boom on an unprecedented scale, creating significant pressure at a time when we can scarcely afford it, with counties facing severe financial difficultly that threatens the existence of highly-valued public services and means we have to reluctantly consider charging for other life-critical services.

'Of course, people living healthier and longer - not to mention choosing to live in our historic counties - should be celebrated, but this growth – and therefore extra demand - is not reflected in the way that our councils are presently funded.

'This is outdated, unfair and unsustainable in the long-term.'