Watford Community Housing Trust is encouraging its residents to vote for members of a panel who will speak up on their behalf.

An election is being held for members of the Gateway Membership Team - a group of 12 people who represent the members of the trust. The panel look closely at the services the trust provides and the way it spends its money, advising staff on how they can improve things.

Jackie Kelly, director of customer excellence at Watford Community Housing Trust, said: “The Gateway Membership Team act as the voice of our members, speaking up on the issues that are important and ensuring that their views are heard right at the heart of our decision making. We want as many of our members as possible to use their vote.”

There are three vacancies on the group and four candidates are standing: Chris Blackett, Howard Gould, Cheryl Hollingsworth and Naomi Welch.

Members can vote using ballot papers they have received in the post, by text message on 07773 789104, or online at www.ukengage.com/wcht. The election closes on Friday, July 31.