Sarah Lucas has been announced as the Labour candidate for the North Herts Palace by-election, after former councillor Chris Hinchliff stepped down.

This comes after his victory in the General Election to become North East Hertfordshire’s new MP.

Sarah Lucas, Labour’s candidate for the Royston Palace by-election, said: "As a resident of Royston Palace, I know how important it is to have a councillor who will stand up for our community.

"If elected, I will champion our incredible town and its strong values of inclusion, equality and opportunity.

"I will prioritise safe, clean green spaces for everyone, advocate for affordable housing with essential infrastructure (including health provision), and support a thriving high street that protects local businesses while welcoming new opportunities.

"I am fully committed to protecting our natural environment through our council’s green initiatives and by working with partners and local organisations.

"I will work closely with community groups and organisations to help them to provide entertainment, activities and support for residents.

"Most importantly, I will promote the needs and values of residents and ensure that the success of our district means the success of Royston.

"I want to hear from residents abotut their concerns, needs and what they care about because I want to be a representative who truly reflects the community’s voice and works for our collective goals.

"It’s important to me that every resident feels heard and represented, and I am dedicated to ensuring that the community’s needs are my top priority."

Mr Hinchliff said: "I am incredibly proud to have been elected to be our new MP for North East Hertfordshire. I am fully committed to representing our constituency and its people in Parliament, which means that it is right that I now step down as a district councillor.

"However, I am delighted to support the fantastic Sarah Lucas to be my replacement at North Herts Council. Sarah is a committed activist and member of our community, who I know will stand up for Royston Palace. As a resident of the town, I am excited to see Sarah representing our community."

Councillor Daniel Allen, leader of the North Herts Labour and Co-operative Group, added: "I am really pleased that Chris has thrown himself into his work representing us in Parliament.

"It is sad to see such a brilliant fellow councillor leave the council chamber, but this is a great reason to leave and I can only thank him for the work he has put in for his residents.

"I am very happy that Sarah is putting herself forward to succeed Chris. She is an active community member who wants to stand up for her fellow residents and, with her local charity experience, she knows how important it is to roll up her sleeves and get stuck in."

The date for a by-election is yet to be announced.