A new group launched today has promised to put the needs of Brentwood residents before party politics.

Brentwood First is made up of Cllrs William Lloyd, Russell Quirk, Phil Baker and Nigel Clarke. All four resigned from the Brentwood Conservative group in December.

During a meeting held this afternoon at the town hall, in Ingrave Road, they announced that former councillor Lionel Lee would be their president, and former Brentwood Mayor and councillor Joan Holmes will be the group’s chairman.

They also explained why they set up Brentwood First, after a number of issues including how the future of the town hall and the William Hunter Way development was handled, and said they welcomed members regardless of their political persuasion.

The group leader Cllr William Lloyd said: “Brentwood First, for me, is a chance to welcome everyone. We are working towards what is better for our town and will make Brentwood better for the future.

“We have a real chance to change the way this borough is going and I believe the community is stronger when we are working together.”