Romford's MP is celebrating his 20-year anniversary in his parliamentary seat.

Andrew Rosindell was first elected to represent Romford in the 2001 General Election.

He told this paper: “Running in my hometown gave me many advantages.

“I have memories of Romford Market from [when I was a] small boy, as my mother took me there every week in a push chair."

Andrew explained he had witnessed many changes during his tenure.

He explained: “I remember Romford Market from the 1980s, it was an incredible market.

“That’s changed because people now go to supermarkets or out-of-town shopping centres.

“But recently there’s been a revival.

“The town centre needs modernisation, but we also don’t want to lose its history.

“During the next 20 years I would like to see it become a place we can all be really proud of.”

London assembly member for Havering, Keith Prince AM, added: "Andrew has been an amazing servant to the people of Romford."