A social housing provider celebrated its fifth anniversary by declaring this to be its "year of ambition".

Staff from Thrive Homes, which owns more than 4,000 homes in south west Hertfordshire, celebrated the landmark on Tuesday at its headquarters in Croxley Green Business Park.

Chief executive Elspeth Mackenzie said: "We’ve already achieved a lot and I see no reason to stop now.

"Our short, medium and long term goals are the same, to create a thriving community where there are life choices and opportunities for all. Declaring this our year of ambition will inspire and motivate us to keep aiming higher."

Since taking over the homes from Three Rivers District Council in 2008, Thrive says it has spent £55 million on homes and communities across the district.

Board chairman Richard Laval said: "These first five years have been a whirlwind of activity. At times it’s been challenging, but always rewarding.

"Thrive Homes is a permanent fixture within its communities, we’re here for the long haul."

To mark the anniversary, Thrive is offering a one-off grant of £5,000 to help a resident fulfil an ambition such as gaining a qualification or re-training in another profession.

The competition is open to all Thrive tenants and details of how to apply can be found on their website.