Liberal Democrats take control of Hertfordshire County Council

Lib Dems are now leading Hertfordshire County Council, for the first time in its 136-year history.

The party has formed the new administration - which runs the authority - following the elections on 1st May.

These established the Liberal Democrats as the county's largest party, with 31 seats - a total which has now risen to 32 following the defection of a Labour councillor.

This brings an end to 26 years of Conservative control.

Cllr Steve Jarvis has been elected the new leader of the council, and Cllr Laurence Brass as chairman.

Lib Dems have pledged a fair deal for Hertfordshire, with a focus on highways, SEND provision, and the environment.

Cllr Jarvis said:

"It's a great honour to become leader of the council. Voters made it clear they want change - and that's what we'll deliver.

"In the first 100 days we'll outline a ten-point plan of priority actions - to repair roads, make journeys safer, boost local transport, improve our environment, support those who most need our help, and generate funding for frontline services.

"We've hit the ground running by announcing a trial scheme to get more potholes fixed each time crews visit an affected neighbourhood. We'll also bring together young people, parents, schools and teachers together for an in-depth SEND summit, to inform our plans to reform this vital service".