It’s a real pleasure to wish all residents of Watford a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

We start 2019 on a high, with money secured to expand Watford General Hospital’s A&E, and launch a brand new mental health care initiative in our area, which will see two new mental health support teams set up.

I’m also so pleased that we’ve got the Government’s support for a £40 million new passenger bridge at Watford Junction, with a new entrance and ticket office on the east side.

2019 is a year that will go down in history, as we leave the EU at the end of March, delivering on the results of the referendum in 2016. The decision to leave is one that has divided our town and our country, but I hope that we can now all come together to ensure we get the best deal for Britain, one that will protect jobs and the economy.

We must also now turn our attention to other priorities, and so this year I will be working to further reduce unemployment in our town and create more school places, ensuring there’s more choice for parents.

I also want to see more young people get on the housing ladder this year, with initiatives that help first-time buyers access help-to-buy advice and support. Young people should be able to afford to buy in their home town, and live near their family and friends.

Here’s to a great 2019!

  • Richard Harrington is Conservative MP for Watford