A Watford-based charity has appointed two new patrons.

The Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire and the Countess of Veralum Dione Grimston and Dr Julian Harriss have joined The British Polio Fellowship.

They will provide support to the charity and spread awareness of post-polio syndrome (PPS), a condition that affects polio survivors years after recovery.

The Countess has assisted the charity on previous campaigns and Dr Harriss is a polio expert.

CEO of The British Polio Fellowship Ted Hill said:.“We’re absolutely delighted that the Countess and Dr Harris have accepted the positions and can’t wait to continue our partnership and work with them.

“To have two people with such different backgrounds and knowledge means they can both bring something different but equally positive to us as a charity, as well as our members and those living with PPS and the late effects of Polio.

“They are both hugely respected in their fields and we’re really grateful to them for offering us their expertise and time.

“I am confident that their support will be a big advantage in our campaign to spread awareness and improve the treatment of PPS.”