Watford Labour Party has officially appointed its new chairman.

Momentum-backed Linda Meehan has taken over from Mike Jackson, who formally stepped down on January 16 after 23 years at the helm.

Ms Meehan was elected by the Labour members present at the meeting held on January 16 after receiving more votes than fellow candidate Holywell ward councillor Favour Ezeifedi, who is former vice chairman of the party.

Ms Meehan said: "I am delighted to have been elected Chair and would like to thank Mike Jackson , our former Chair, for giving so much time and support to the Labour Party here in Watford. "Moving forward our priority will be focusing on community engagement to help shape policy both locally and nationally. It is important that we put social justice at the heart of everything we campaign for at Watford Labour."

Ms Meehan publicly thanked Momentum Watford for the organisation's support.

Momentum Twitter tweeted: "Congratulations to Linda for being voted Chair of Watford Labour - a hopeful start to the new year. She’ll do a great job!"

The new chairman responded: "Aw thank you, I'm chuffed to bits. Your support was brilliant and I'm very excited about the challenges ahead that will lead us to a #socialist #Labour government. For the many. Happy #SocialistSunday."

Mr Jackson, who stepped down as chairman due to ill-health earlier this month, previously said of his departure: "It’s been a great privilege to serve my party and the community over a lifetime in the town I love."