A bigger, better, more effective Croxley Green Residents’ Association is promised after the ailing organisation celebrated its rebirth last night.

More than 30 residents attended a make-or-break Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) in the Barton Way Library to discuss the association’s future.

Dwindling committee numbers had led some members to consider winding up the organisation – founded in 1939 in a bid to secure better drainage for the village.

The packed meeting, however, proved a great success, with a new chairman elected and a date set for the election of new committee members – for which there was no shortage of applications.

President Mike Humphreys implored residents to fight for the future of the organisation, describing it as vital for effective campaigning on issues such as the Watford Road Tesco development.

A united, emboldened association, he added, was now more important than ever due to the alleged politicisation of the Parish Council by the Liberal Democrat Party.

This, he said, had diluted its sense of independence and dented its ability to work effectively.

To warm applause Barry Grant – currently the head of the Keep Croxley Green Group – was elected Chairman, replacing Liberal Democrat Parish Council Chairman Brian Norman.

Mr Norman, who also sits on Three Rivers District Council, said he could no longer commit sufficient time to the organisation and resigned his post.

Speaking after the meeting Mr Grant said: “Now more than ever we need a strong community voice to tackle important issues and keep residents informed.

“We will be made up from residents and not councillors. I believe this can only be a good thing for democracy.”

Mary Mitchell, who volunteered for the role of Treasurer, echoed the thoughts of many at the meeting.

She told the Watford Observer: “Croxley is a lovely place and I want to help keep it that way.”

The association will hold its next meeting on Monday, November 24, where new committee members will be elected.

For more information please contact croxleyresident@gmail.com.