This week we’ve been celebrating 70 years of the NHS. In so many ways the NHS is a remarkable invention. Free at the point of use, we know that the NHS is there when we need it. But it’s also apparent that the NHS is massively stretched and underresourced. Dealing with a growing and ageing population, the NHS is put under more and more strain every year. The NHS needs significantly more funding so that it can meet the growing demands placed on it.

My three children were all born at Watford General Hospital and whenever I have been there I’ve always been struck by just how dedicated, caring and hardworking the staff and volunteers at Watford General are. However, it’s obvious it needs better facilities. I’m pleased that by next year we should have a brand new, and much needed, multi storey car park at the site. The current car park, perched on a hill, is not good enough. The new car park will complement the lifesaving Thomas Sawyer Way, which means it’s easier for ambulances to get to the hospital.

This is the first step for the town a state of the art hospital fit for the 21st Century. I am meeting with the chairman of the West Herts Hospital Trust to see how we can support them in delivering a regenerated hospital building for the town. I will always do all I can as Watford’s Mayor to support improvements in health facilities in our town so that local residents and health care staff have the facilities they deserve.

So thank you to everyone who has supported our NHS for the last 70 years. Here’s to another 70 years!

- Peter Taylor is Elected Mayor of Watford