With a snap election on the way, you’ll be hearing plenty about big national and international issues.

But while we all get our say on the Government on June 8, we first have a chance to focus on local issues – and ask ourselves who will stand up for our local area at County Hall?

This coming Thursday there are elections taking place across Hertfordshire to elect 78 new county councillors.

As usual I’ve been out on the doorstep with my team chatting about what people like about living here, and what they’d like to see done differently. There are some issues which come up on every street – the state of our roads and pavements being the biggest by a long way.

Many decisions which affect our day-to-day lives are taken by Herts County Council. It has a budget of over £800 million, and they receive almost 80 per cent of your council tax.

They are responsible for education, transport, libraries, social care, and maintaining our roads and pavements – big issues which affect every single one of us.

Local elections might not have the drama and coverage of a Westminster election – but they’re important all the same. So if you’re bothered by the state of the roads, or want to see the street lights kept on later, don’t just grumble – vote!

Finally, I would like to pay tribute to longstanding county councillor Derek Scudder, who is retiring from the County Council this year after sixteen years of dedicated service.

A familiar face in Garston, Derek has stood up for residents time and time again, memorably leading the fight to save Leavesden school, and recently taking up residents concerns about speeding on the A405. I know many of you will join me in saying a sincere thank you to Derek for everything he has achieved.