Members of the public are invited to stand or nominate someone for the vacant councillor opening in Cowley Hill.

Former independent councillor David Burcombe has been disqualified after he lost his appeal last week against his conviction for sexual assault.

Now Hertsmere Borough Council are looking to fill the void.

If you would like to get more involved in the community and have the power to influence the way local services are provided, this may be the role for you.

Jo Bateman, electoral services manager at Hertsmere Borough Council, said: "Councillors are people elected to represent their local community in the running of their local council.

"Being an effective councillor requires commitment and hard work, but can be exceptionally rewarding. You will need to balance the best interests of your ward residents, the borough or county residents, your political party - if you have one - and the council."

The deadline for nominations is 4pm on December 5. The by-election is scheduled to take place on January 4 2018.

Constituents in Cowley Hill ward are advised to contact councillors Richard Butler or Michelle Vince until the by-election has been concluded.

If you would like to stand as local councillor for Borehamwood Cowley Hill ward visit www.hertsmere.gov.uk/beacouncillor