Earlier this month I was re-elected to serve as Watford’s Mayor for another four years. It is a huge honour to fulfil this role and I am so grateful to everyone who put their trust in me.

Standing for election is always a bit of an odd experience. From seeing your name on posters, to voting for yourself on polling day, at times it is a bit surreal. Although candidates are the figurehead, you are part of a team who agree manifesto priorities, design and deliver leaflets, put up posters, knock on doors and much more.

Over the past few months I have chatted with hundreds of local residents. Many people commented on the hard work of their local Liberal Democrat team and about our investment in local parks, support for Watford General and bringing in the popular Beryl Bike scheme. In these elections the Lib Dems won 10 out of 12 wards in Watford, gaining a seat from Labour.

Read more: Peter Taylor re-elected as Watford mayor for Lib Dems

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But there are concerns too. Recent national events have undoubtedly eroded trust in politics, and politicians even further. Locally, many residents are worried about the pace and scale of change in Watford and the number of tall buildings.

My job is to listen to residents and then work with others to get things done. Over the next four years my priorities are securing investment in new facilities at Watford General, fighting the unfair national housing target for Watford and tackling congestion in the town. So after a brief celebration, I’ll be doing all I can to make Watford an even better place for everyone.

  • Peter Taylor is Elected Mayor of Watford