THE new chairman of Halstead Residents’ Association has vowed to get things done for her town.

Linda Hilton, of Mount Pleasant, has been a member of the association for over 20 years and served as a town councillor for eight years, and brings a wealth of experience to the role of chairman.

The 65-year-old is keen to hear what the residents’ association can do for Halstead, and wants residents to know the association can offer a helping hand when necessary.

She said: “This coming year promises to be a busy time with fund raising, promoting the association and attending events in Halstead.

“We currently have 10 councillors on Halstead Town Council and two at Braintree District Council.

“We have strong opinions about what is happening to our town, which we are able to express at town council and district council meetings, but we need more people to join us and get their voices heard.

“It really is important that residents get involved and talk to us, then we can push their views forward and make change happen.”

Linda, who succeeds the outgoing Martin Day, is raring to go in her new role, and believes she was nominated for the position because members know she is the woman to get things done.

She reluctantly had to step down this year as a town councillor due to work commitments, but is looking forward to picking up the role from an independent viewpoint.

She said: “I will get things done, and I think that is why they nominated me, because they know I will get things done. I have been a town councillor, and I have been a member of the residents’ association for a long time.

“I think this really is important, as it allows me to view things from both sides.

“I know the frustrations that councillors go through, and I know the issues residents have as well. We all think this should work well, and are excited to move forward.”

The residents’ association meets on the second Tuesday of every month at St Andrew’s community hall.

Visit halsteadresidentsassociation.co.uk.