Peter Wilkin has been announced as the Green Party candidate for the by-election in Royston Palace.

Voters in Royston Palace ward will be heading to the polls on Thursday, October 17 to elect a new district councillor.

It comes after incumbent Chris Hinchliff stepped down following his election as MP for North East Hertfordshire at July’s general election.

Explaining why he is running as a candidate, Peter Wilkin said: "If elected as your councillor, I would stand up for the people of Royston Palace and the whole town.

"My father was a Church of England vicar, and from observing his pastoral care for the local community I learnt that it’s important to have compassion for all people and when needed respectfully disagree with people while still working together for the greater good.

"I also learnt that it is important to work and strive for a better future and to always stand-up for the voiceless and disadvantaged.

"We need to prioritise affordable homes for local people and have a brake in out-of-town developments.

"I’ve worked in Quality Control for over 10 years, and as such I know that quality is always more important than quantity. I would be honoured to represent Royston Palace in North Herts Council.

"I believe that even one lone Green voice on the council can change the debate, challenge the status quo and Labour’s complacency, to ensure local people concerned about climate change and passionate about their community have an effective voice within the District government.

"I am enthusiastic about creating a more sustainable positive future for Royston where everyone can live their best life."

The other candidates in the election are Callum Bartram-Bell (Conservative), John Froggett (Reform UK), Gill Lewis (Liberal Democrats) and Sarah Lucas (Labour).

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Chris Hinchliff has endorsed Labour candidate Sarah Lucas as his potential successor.

At the time of his resignation, he said: "I am incredibly proud to have been elected to be our new MP for North East Hertfordshire.

"I am fully committed to representing our constituency and its people in Parliament, which means that it is right that I now step down as a district councillor."